THE HON WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health
and Regional Services Delivery
22 December 2009
83rd National Health Consultation in Wonthaggi
National priorities and options for health reform were on the agenda today when the
Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon, met with local health professionals in
Wonthaggi, Victoria.
Minister Snowdon toured Wonthaggi Medical Practice before giving a presentation outlining the
findings of the final report of the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission (NHHRC),
A Healthier Future for All Australians.
Wonthaggi is the 83rd community to take part in health reform consultations held across
Australia since the release of the NHHRC report four months ago. It has made wide-ranging
recommendations for system-wide changes to Australian health care.
The Government is using the recommendations together with the draft National Primary Health
Care Strategy and the National Preventative Health Strategy as a basis for direct consultation
with the health sector and the Australian public.
At today’s consultation, Mr Snowdon outlined the recommendations to local health
professionals and discussed their suggestions and priorities for improving the delivery of health
services in both the local area and nationally.
“Health matters to all Australians and it is vital that we consult thoroughly on what will be the
biggest reform to our health system since Medicare,” Mr Snowdon said.
“The Rudd Government is determined to get the reforms right and provide lasting and
meaningful solutions for a health system under serious strain.”
Minister Snowdon held the 82nd consultation in the Victorian town of Healesville with health
stakeholders and professionals on the previous day.
All Australians can contribute to the discussion on the reforms via the website
Media contact: Alice Plate 0400 045 999.
NEWS 
