Gippsland regional training hub will be established in Traralgon to provide student doctors extra opportunities to study and work in regional areas as part of their specialist training.
The Federal Government has announced funding of $1.2 million for the Traralgon Regional Training Hub to cover the establishment period to December 2018.
The Traralgon Regional Training Hub will operate in partnership with Monash University, as part of a broader network of regional hubs with Deakin University and University of Melbourne.
Assistant Minister for Health Dr David Gillespie said significant progress had been made in establishing the Hub, and Monash University would focus on identifying and supporting interns that intended to practise rurally.
“Monash University has signed on to the project and is meeting with local health and medical providers about this new program,” Minister Gillespie said.
“The Traralgon hub will work with healthcare providers, specialist colleges and local health authorities to develop coordinated and networked training pathways for our future specialist doctors.”
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, who supported Monash’s application to provide more support to Gippsland-based students, has welcomed today’s announcement.
Mr Chester said it was important student doctors could choose to stay in Gippsland while training.
“Many studies have shown people with a connection to a regional community are more likely to practise in regional areas,” Mr Chester said.
“It is important we invest in young doctors who have expressed an interest in staying in regional areas, so we can address any shortfalls in the medical profession in years to come.
“The Traralgon Regional Training Hub will support local people to pursue their training in the Latrobe Valley without having to move away.’
Mr Chester said there were many advantages for young doctors to choose a career in regional areas.
“There are many people who choose to stay in Gippsland for the lifestyle this region can offer; and others who have family or children based in the community that make it difficult for them move away to study,” he said.
Minister Gillespie said the Coalition Government supported high quality rural placements for health students from across Australia.
“Supporting rural health training is an important way to address rural health workforce shortages.
“These initiatives will help the Coalition Government deliver on its commitment to provide first rate health and medical services to all Australians – regardless of where they live.”
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has announced funding to support student doctors and create training pathways in Gippsland for specialist doctors. Mr Chester is pictured with State Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath welcoming the announcement.
