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Minister announces further support for university rural health clubs

The Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson, has announced funding of $645,000 over three years for the continuing operation of university rural health clubs, which provide a forum for undergraduate students to discuss rural health issues.

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24 March 2003

Minister announces further support for university rural health clubs

The Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson, today announced funding of $645,000 over three years for the continuing operation of university rural health clubs, which provide a forum for undergraduate students to discuss rural health issues.

"The clubs promote the benefits of rural practice to undergraduate students in medicine, nursing and allied health," Senator Patterson said. "Students don't need to come from a rural area to be a member; in fact many members are from the city. The one thing that binds all members is an interest in rural health and living in the country.

"It is hoped that this support will encourage many students to move or return to rural and remote Australia as health professionals once their studies are complete."

There are currently 18 rural health clubs at Australian universities with a membership of about 5,000. The clubs are represented through the National Rural Health Network (NRHN) that supports and links the clubs.

The Federal Government provides funding to the clubs through a number of streams, such as conference and administrative support. This additional funding will be provided to some clubs to help them undertake further support activities for allied heath and nursing students. An Indigenous project officer will also be employed by the NRHN.

"This funding will ensure that the excellent work being undertaken by the student clubs continues," Senator Patterson said. "These students are our future health care providers in rural and remote Australia. This Government is committed to ensuring they receive the best possible support as they learn and become familiar with the positive aspects of working and living in rural and remote Australia.

"I congratulate the National Rural Health Network and each of the rural health clubs for their efforts," Senator Patterson said. "I know a lot of their work is undertaken on a voluntary basis which is evidence of their dedication."

Support for undergraduate students with an interest in rural health is an important feature of the Commonwealth Government's focus on rural health. Since 1996, around $2 billion has been spent on targeted rural health and aged care initiatives which aim to improve the range of health care services and strengthen the health workforce in rural communities across Australia.

Media inquiries, contact Sarah Higginbottom, Media Adviser, Senator Patterson's office, 02 6277 7220.