Cohealth GP services to remain open while review underway

The Australian Government will provide up to $1.5 million of funding to support the continuation of cohealth’s general practice services through to 31 July 2026.
 
The announcement follows a decision by cohealth to defer the closure of three general practice services in Melbourne until February 2026.
 
The Government asked the cohealth Board to pause its decision to close general practice services in Collingwood, Fitzroy and Kensington in December, noting the significant impact it would have on patients, staff and the broader community.
 
This funding allows cohealth to keep services open while ensuring continuity of care for patients and families and a long-term solution is developed.
 
To support the development of a long-term solution, the Australian and Victorian governments will commission an independent review of cohealth’s general practice service model, governance and finances. Further details of this review will be announced in the coming week.
 
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
 
“The Albanese Government is committed to making sure every Australian, especially the most vulnerable, can access high-quality, affordable primary care close to home.
 
“Through this funding, the Albanese Government has given certainty to cohealth’s clients while an independent review of its general practice operations is undertaken.
 
“This will be welcome news for the local communities and will ensure individuals and families can continue access to essential GP services.”
 
Quotes attributable to Sarah Witty MP, Member for Melbourne:
 
"The decision to close cohealth clinics in Collingwood and Fitzroy caused great dismay to many people in the area who rely on these health services.
 
"Today's announcement of short-term funding to allow time to find a long-term solution is a welcome reprieve for thousands of cohealth patients, and the staff who care for cohealth clients.
 
"We listened to people in our community and our government has taken strong and immediate action to keep our vital health services."
 
Quotes attributable to Jo Briskey MP, Member for Maribyrnong:
 
“This is a win for our community, who refused to accept the closure of essential GP services. Our message has been consistent - Kensington cannot lose essential GP services - and today’s announcement shows that message has been heard.
 
“We now expect this review to dig deep, bring transparency to cohealth’s decisions, and deliver a plan that secures these critical services remain accessible for the long haul.”