The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, praised the Northern Mallee Integrated Partnerships and the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Parliament during her contribution on The Health Legislation Regulatory Reform Bill 2024.
Ms Benham praised the collaboration between the smaller health services of Robinvale District Health Service, Mallee Track Health & Community Services along with Mildura Base Public Hospital as part of the Northern Mallee Integrated Partnerships.
“This partnership has been a game-changer for healthcare in our area, allowing these three services to pool their resources and deliver better local outcomes, especially in our smaller towns,” said Ms Benham.
Ms Benham referenced what she believes to be a “no brainer” in the recently released Health Services Plan stating that the Mallee Network is essentially a rebrand of the partnerships that already exist, protecting local governance and jobs.
“The alternative is being absorbed into a much larger network like Loddon Mallee which would be a disaster for our communities.
“The Mallee Health Network builds on what’s already working so well and protects us from the heavy-handed, one-size-fits-all approach of The Allan Labor Government.
“The Mallee Health Network is the right path for our communities, ensuring that healthcare remains local, effective, and responsive to the needs of our region.”
Ms Benham expressed her deep gratitude to the Royal Flying Doctors (RFDS) who have changed the landscape of healthcare delivery and community transport in her hometown of Robinvale.
“Thanks to the RFDS, residents now have a reliable way to access essential healthcare services in Mildura.
“This is a big deal for our region, where distances can be a real barrier to getting the care people deserve,” said Ms Benham.
