Federal Government Steps In to Keep cohealth GP Services Running — But Only Temporarily
20 Nov 2025
The clinics were facing closure due to financial pressures, putting around 12,500 patients at risk of losing long-standing relationships with their GPs.
The funding extension follows strong advocacy by GPs, patients and local communities, and gives cohealth time to undergo an independent review and plan for a long-term, sustainable service model. Cohealth has confirmed that no GPs have lost their jobs, offering short-term stability for both staff and patients.
While the investment prevents immediate shutdowns, it does not resolve long-term viability issues. Both the Australian and Victorian governments will now commission a review of cohealth’s general practice model, governance and financial settings. Cohealth’s CEO, Nicole Bartholomeusz, welcomed the move, saying the funding guarantees immediate continuity of care for thousands of vulnerable Victorians.
However, cohealth will still close its counselling services next month, as well as the Collingwood pharmacy service. The Collingwood site itself remains scheduled to close in 2026 due to ageing infrastructure.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the funding offers certainty while the review is completed. RACGP Victoria Chair Dr Anita Muñoz also welcomed the extension, but warned that a long-term solution is essential to prevent vulnerable patients from being left without care.
Local MP Jo Briskey called the decision a win for the community, saying residents had made it clear that essential GP services must remain accessible.
Source: Australian Government, cohealth, RACGP
