RWAV’s 2023-24 annual report shows the strengthening Victoria’s rural healthcare workforce. Initiatives gave access to better care.

The report shows the dedication The Rural Workforce Agency of Victoria (RWAV) has made to improve access to healthcare for communities across Victoria. This commitment is reflected in their initiatives, strategic partnerships, and key data insights. The success of these efforts hinges largely on the dedication of rural and regional healthcare professionals themselves. RWAV also acknowledges the crucial role of stakeholders, partners, and funders, including the Australian and Victorian governments.

Key accomplishments showcase impact

Several key milestones showcase the impact RWAV has had:

• Outreach programmes: Reaching over 47,787 patients, including 10,728 First Nations people, through 3,227 outreach visits delivered by healthcare professionals across 291 services.
• Locum services: Ensuring continuity of care with 108 locum placements and 2,489 locum sessions.
• Recruitment and retention: Awarding over $185,000 in incentives to support 109 primary care services in recruitment efforts.
• Workforce development: Supporting 51 general practitioners (GPs) with placements or fellowships, along with awarding 138 grants to students pursuing health careers.
• Grants awarded: Approving nearly 3,000 grants, including those for health workforce scholarships, professional development, and allied health upskilling and service expansion.
• Mental health workforce: Distributing over $1.8 million in incentives to support 160 placements, with a funding increase to $3.2 million through June 2025 due to the program’s success.
• Engagement and advocacy: Participating in over 360 stakeholder engagements, fostering collaboration across the healthcare sector.
• Rural health workforce census: Identifying key hotspots across Victoria where additional health professionals are urgently needed.

A year of innovation and collaboration

Lauren Cordwell, RWAV CEO, emphasises the achievements: “We’ve reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring rural communities have access to the healthcare they deserve. Through our Strategic Plan, we’ve strengthened recruitment programs, enhanced professional development, and introduced innovative digital tools.”

RWAV has also focused on fostering culturally safe healthcare by working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations. Their contributions to key reviews for Medicare, scope of practice, and rural urgent care showcase their commitment to driving positive change.

Looking ahead: Addressing challenges and continuing success

The report also highlights areas where additional support is needed, with specific locations identified as hotspots requiring more healthcare professionals.

RWAV remains committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities. By collaborating with health services, practices, and communities, they continue to develop innovative solutions to attract and retain a workforce tailored to meet the evolving needs of rural Victoria.

Also read: Australia’s healthcare future: Innovative models and workforce solutions