Residents from across the City of Yarra have rallied to demand a rethink of planned service changes at local cohealth community health centres, warning thousands could lose affordable access to essential care.
At a community meeting on Friday night, Yarra City Council resolved to call on "all decision makers and our local representatives" to reverse, review and revive the centres after cohealth announced changes affecting the three sites.
Yarra City Council Mayor, Cr Stephen Jolly said they oppose the ending of GP, pharmacy and general counselling services slated for the Fitzroy and Collingwood centres, as well as Kensigton.
"We are urging the State and Federal Governments to intervene to stop the discontinuation of these services, currently scheduled to begin the week before Christmas," he said.
"It is also imperative that we prevent the full closure of the Collingwood Community Health Centre in 2026."
A motion, presented by Yarra City Council Deputy Mayor, Cr Sarah McKenzie also called for an independent review of cohealth's funding, governance and resourcing to safeguard the long-term sustainability of community health.
"Community health keeps our neighbourhoods safe, healthy and connected," she said.
Those attending the meeting voiced concern that the withdrawal of bulk-billed GPs and low-cost counselling would leave vulnerable people – including pensioners, people with chronic conditions and those experiencing homelessness – without affordable pathways to care.
Cr Jolly said that Council will continue to encourage and facilitate community action to maintain pressure on decision makers in the lead-up to the December deadline.
