SearchThe PHN invites Expressions of Interest from eligible GP practices – either individual practices or partnerships (one or more practices; see eligibility requirements) – to establish, operate and deliver a CountryCare Connect Hub across the nominated underserviced Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the region.
This commissioned initiative aims to strengthen access to primary-based mental health care for people with severe and/or complex mental health needs, particularly in rural communities experiencing high levels of unmet need, workforce shortages, and fragmented service pathways.
Four hubs are to established across Western Downs, Goondiwindi, Lockyer Valley, and Somerset LGAs. There will be one CountryCare Connect Hub established in each of these regions.
Key dates
- Wednesday, 26 November | 12pm: Expression of interest opens*
- Thursday, 4 December | 5:30pm - 6:30pm: Market briefing*
- Thursday, 18 December | 5pm: Final questions submitted (updated)
- Monday, 22 December | 2pm: Expression of interest closes (updated)
*Past dates
Market briefing
The model
A patient-centred, team-based approach is essential for a sustainable health system, particularly in regional and rural areas where timely access is limited and workforce challenges are common.
This activity prioritises people with severe and complex mental health needs in four underserviced, rural communities within the PHN region. The aim is to increase access to care, reduce delivery fragmentation, prevent avoidable hospital admissions, and improve mental health outcomes.
GP clinics will serve as the Hubs in the Western Downs, Goondiwindi, Somerset, and Lockyer Valley LGAs, supported by the multidisciplinary Allied Health Professional (AHPs) Team which will be complemented by access to telehealth psychiatry. CountryCare Connect will be a GP-led Hub-and-Spoke model, placing GPs at the centre of care coordination.
The hub-and-spoke model is outlined below:
