Annual report outlines priorities for Australia’s rural health workforce
21 Oct 2026
Covering the period from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026, the report outlines work to strengthen healthcare services and support the professionals working in regional, rural and remote Australia.
A key focus was advancing the National Rural Generalist Pathway following the recognition of rural generalist medicine as a new field of specialty practice within general practice.
The office also supported place-based education and training through national collaboration with the Regional Education Commissioner and the Rural Health International Place-based Education and Research Conference.
Work to strengthen rural nursing and midwifery included mapping education and training pathways using national consultation, evidence reviews and workforce survey findings.
The report also examined the Multi-Purpose Service Program and multidisciplinary care models to support sustainable, coordinated healthcare in rural and remote areas.
Other priorities included contributing to Medicare and rural workforce reforms, specialist training and digital health initiatives. The office also supported the development of the National Allied Health Workforce Strategy and discussions on a consistent national approach to rural allied health generalism.
Engagement with First Nations organisations and communities remained a priority, supported by the First Nations Peak Organisations Roundtable and collaboration with national First Nations health bodies.
The office continued to work through formal advisory and consultation groups to inform its activities and strengthen rural health planning.
The report provides an overview of the work undertaken during 2025–26 to address rural healthcare workforce needs and support services for communities outside major cities.
Annual report outlines priorities for Australia’s rural health workforce
Source: Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing — Annual Report – Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner 2025–26.