Advocating for a new Deniliquin Hospital will be a major focus of Edward River Council.
At its meeting on Tuesday, Council supported a recommendation from CEO Jack Bond that paves the way for a new hospital being a local priority.
Council insists the hospital must be part of a broader health precinct.
A 'position statement' from Mr Bond and Mayor Ashley Hall was unanimously supported by Council at its monthly meeting.
In a report to the meeting Mr Bond said recent consultation undertaken through the Deniliquin Clinical Services Plan (CSP) by the Murrumbidgee Local Health District has "highlighted significant community concern regarding the hospital's limitations and the need for investment in a modern, future-focused health facility".
Cr Hall said the statement reflects the overwhelming feedback from the community and aligns with the priorities identified in the CSP.
"The message from our community is clear – we need a hospital that can meet the needs of today and the future," Cr Hall said.
"This is about equity, safety and sustainability. A new hospital will help deliver better health outcomes, attract and retain skilled professionals, and support Deniliquin's role as a regional hub for rural medical training."
The Position Statement acknowledges that the existing hospital is no longer suitable to deliver the full range of health services expected by a regional community and highlights the opportunity to strengthen Deniliquin's growing role in training rural doctors and health professionals.
The Council's formal position will now guide its advocacy efforts with state and federal governments, neighbouring councils and health sector partners.
Deputy Mayor Kellie Crossley said Council was committed to working collaboratively to ensure this essential infrastructure becomes a reality.
"We will use this position to advocate strongly and ensure Deniliquin is not left behind when it comes to access to quality health care," Cr Crossley said.
The Position Statement says: "Edward River Council acknowledges the critical importance of accessible, high-quality health care for the wellbeing of our community and the sustainability of our region.
"Council strongly supports the need for significant investment in Deniliquin for a new and improved hospital, as part of a broader health precinct, that aligns with the Clinical Services Plan, is fit for purpose, future-focused, and capable of delivering comprehensive health services for our growing and ageing population."
Council acknowledged the existing Deniliquin Hospital and health precinct have served the community for decades, however they no longer meet the clinical, operational, or infrastructure standards expected of a modern regional hospital.
It says community feedback, workforce retention challenges and service delivery limitations have all highlighted the need for a facility that can:
• Support a broader range of medical and allied health services
• Attract and retain skilled health professionals
• Integrate with surrounding Local Health Districts and private providers
• Respond effectively to emergency and acute care needs
• Cater to a diverse population across Deniliquin and neighbouring areas.
Cr Hall said after Tuesday's meeting that he believes adopting the Position Statement gives Council and the broader community a clear direction that can be advocated through NSW Health, the NSW Government and politicians, including those at local level.
The Position Statement also says:
"Deniliquin services a large rural catchment, as highlighted in the Clinical Services Plan, and this new Hospital is vital to ensure equity of access to health care comparable to metropolitan and coastal centres. The health of our people, the attractiveness of our region to new residents and businesses, and the future of local health delivery all depend on this essential infrastructure."
Council acknowledged the State Government has committed to upgrades to ambulance and aeromedical services in recent years at Deniliquin. However, while the majority of larger regional hospitals in Murrumbidgee Health District have had recent upgrades "now is the time for Deniliquin Hospital".
"Council is committed to working with community members, health professionals, local Aboriginal organisations, Murrumbidgee Local Health District, NSW Health and our neighbouring councils to advocate for a new hospital and health precinct that meets the long-term needs of Deniliquin and surrounds," the statement says.
Cr Hall said Council would continue to keep the community informed of progress on the new hospital, and work with local organisations to maximise advocacy efforts. He thanked everyone who had been involved to this point with the Position Statement that provides the Edward River district with clear direction and an unambiguous pathway forward.
FULL TEXT OF THE POSITION STATEMENT:
