1 July 2025

Effective 1 July 2025, Austin Health, Mercy Health (Mercy Hospital for Women), Northern Health and Seymour Health proudly commence operations as part of Victoria’s new Local Health Service Networks (Networks).

Together, we form the North Metro & Mitchell Network.

This collaborative initiative marks a significant step towards delivering better-connected, more accessible healthcare for our communities. By working together, we aim to provide care that is closer to home, easier to navigate, and tailored to the specific needs of our diverse populations.

Each health service within the network will retain its unique identity, leadership and deep-rooted connection to the community. This ensures that local voices continue to shape the care provided, while benefiting from shared expertise and resources across the network.

Key benefits of the Network model include:

• Improved access and equity: Streamlined referral pathways and coordinated services will make it easier for patients to receive the care they need without unnecessary delays.
• Enhanced workforce support: Collaborative planning will strengthen our ability to attract, retain, and support a skilled healthcare workforce, ensuring sustainability and excellence in care delivery.
• Focus on safety and quality: Unified clinical governance will promote consistent, high-quality care across all services within the network.
• Efficient use of resources: Sharing back-office functions and support services will reduce duplication, allowing more resources to be directed towards patient care.

This initiative aligns with the Victorian Government’s commitment to strengthening our world-class health system, ensuring that every Victorian has access to timely, high-quality care.

Our services are excited to embark on this journey together, reinforcing our dedication to the health and well-being of our communities.

For more information about the Local Health Service Networks, please visit health.vic.gov.au/local-health-service-networks.