Life Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Federal Support Secures Cohealth's GP Services Amid Financial Strain

Ensuring Continued Access to Primary Care in Melbourne's Inner Suburbs

Federal Support Secures Cohealth's GP Services Amid Financial Strain?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In response to financial challenges faced by Cohealth, a non-profit community health service, the federal government has allocated $1.5 million to maintain its GP services in Melbourne's inner north and west.
This funding ensures that clinics in Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Kensington will remain operational until 31 July 2026, providing essential care to approximately 12,500 patients who were at risk of losing access to their GPs.

Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the importance of this intervention, stating that the funding will offer immediate relief to communities facing the potential loss of long-standing, trusted care relationships. Cohealth's clientele includes some of the most marginalized and disadvantaged individuals, many of whom have complex health needs.

In addition to the financial support, both federal and state governments have commissioned an independent review of Cohealth's general practice service model, governance, and finances. This review aims to identify sustainable solutions to ensure the long-term viability of Cohealth's services.

For health care professionals, this development underscores the critical role of community health services in delivering primary care to vulnerable populations. It also highlights the importance of financial sustainability and the need for adequate insurance coverage to protect against potential operational risks in the community health sector.

Published:Thursday, 29th Jan 2026
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Bupa's Strategic Expansion into Mental Health Services
Bupa's Strategic Expansion into Mental Health Services
29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Bupa, a leading health insurer in Australia, has unveiled plans to significantly enhance mental health services by establishing a network of clinics named Mindplace. This initiative aims to open 60 clinics nationwide by 2027, aligning closely with the government's objective of operating 61 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres by mid-2026. - read more
Federal Support Secures Cohealth's GP Services Amid Financial Strain
Federal Support Secures Cohealth's GP Services Amid Financial Strain
29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In response to financial challenges faced by Cohealth, a non-profit community health service, the federal government has allocated $1.5 million to maintain its GP services in Melbourne's inner north and west. This funding ensures that clinics in Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Kensington will remain operational until 31 July 2026, providing essential care to approximately 12,500 patients who were at risk of losing access to their GPs. - read more
Rising Out-of-Pocket Costs Challenge Australia's Universal Healthcare
Rising Out-of-Pocket Costs Challenge Australia's Universal Healthcare
29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Patients Australia, in collaboration with La Trobe University, has released the 2025 Patient View Report, shedding light on the increasing financial burden faced by Australians seeking healthcare services. The report indicates that 62% of patients incur out-of-pocket expenses when visiting their GP, with nearly half of these individuals paying an average gap fee of $51 or more. - read more
Australian Insurers Adapt Investment Strategies Amid Geopolitical and Economic Changes
Australian Insurers Adapt Investment Strategies Amid Geopolitical and Economic Changes
29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian insurers are actively revising their investment portfolios in response to evolving geopolitical events and a stabilizing economic environment. A recent report by Janus Henderson Investors reveals that 47% of insurers plan to increase their investment portfolio risk in the next 12 months, with a significant focus on private markets. - read more
Mandatory Professional Indemnity Insurance for NSW Builders by 2026
Mandatory Professional Indemnity Insurance for NSW Builders by 2026
29 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Registered building practitioners in New South Wales are facing a critical deadline to secure professional indemnity (PI) insurance by July 1, 2026, in accordance with the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2021. This legislation, which originally set a 2025 enforcement date, has been extended by 12 months to allow the industry additional time for preparation. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

The Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Purchasing Life Insurance in Australia
The Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Purchasing Life Insurance in Australia
As the landscape of finance and personal security evolves in Australia, the importance of being insured has never been more prominent. In a world of changing family dynamics, economic pressures, and higher living costs, life insurance stands as a bastion of support ensuring the well-being of loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. - read more
The Impact of Parenthood on Your Life Insurance Choices
The Impact of Parenthood on Your Life Insurance Choices
Life insurance, a contract between an insurer and a policyholder, is designed to provide financial protection to loved ones in the event of the policyholder's death. For parents, this protection takes on a new level of significance. The birth of a child heralds a profound shift in priorities, with a focus on safeguarding the future of one's family. Hence, understanding life insurance options becomes a crucial aspect of responsible parenting. - read more
Life Events That Should Trigger a Life Insurance Review for Aussie Families
Life Events That Should Trigger a Life Insurance Review for Aussie Families
Life insurance is a cornerstone of financial planning for Aussie families, offering protection and peace of mind. But what happens when the bustling flow of life brings changes? This is where a life insurance review comes into play. A life insurance review is a thorough analysis of your existing policy to ensure it aligns with your current life circumstances and financial goals. - read more
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Comparing Life Insurance Policies
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Comparing Life Insurance Policies
Choosing the right life insurance policy is one of the most important decisions for Australians, especially for those who are middle-aged or older. Life insurance provides financial security for your loved ones in the event of your passing, ensuring that they are not burdened with financial hardships. - read more
Life After You: Planning Ahead With Quality Life Insurance for Your Family
Life After You: Planning Ahead With Quality Life Insurance for Your Family
Life insurance is a fundamental component of a robust financial plan, yet its significance is often underestimated. It serves as a safety net, ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure in the event of your absence. Understanding life insurance is the first step towards safeguarding your family’s future. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Grace Period:
A set amount of time after the premium is due during which a policyholder can make a payment without the insurance coverage lapsing.