Message from our Chair

I am thrilled to present the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network's (SEMPHN) Annual Report for 2022-23. This year has seen sustained innovation and fantastic advancements in our journey. 

Every year, SEMPHN's Health Needs Assessment yields invaluable data and insights into the diverse communities of south east Melbourne, guiding our future primary health services and programs. Navigating the healthcare system is often a complex and nuanced experience, and the insights derived from lived experiences shed light on the reality of seeking support. These insights are instrumental in helping organisations like ours eliminate barriers to access. 

As a Primary Health Network, we serve as a vital bridge between federal and state government bodies and the local health services and programs that provide care to the individuals, families, and culturally diverse communities within our catchment area. South east Melbourne is home to a staggering 1.6 million people, making it the second-largest catchment population in the country, and this number continues to grow. 

Given our expansive population, it is imperative that we listen closely to the communities we serve.

We are fortunate to have a dedicated Clinical and Community Council, comprising diverse professionals, individuals with lived experiences, and community representatives who provide invaluable insights and guidance. I extend my sincere gratitude to our Council members for their ongoing contributions and wisdom. 

This year, both the Board and Clinical and Community Council recognised the need to expand the range of advice SEMPHN receives, particularly from different priority areas and population groups, including those with lived experiences. As a result, we have established three specialised reference groups, with the Primary and Aged Care Reference Group already in operation. Planning is underway for the Mental Health and Wellbeing Reference Group and the First Nations Reference Group. I eagerly anticipate the deepened collaboration and invaluable insights these groups will provide. 

This strategic initiative closely aligns with SEMPHN's Strategic Plan 2023-28 – also known as our 'Path to Impact'. A core strategic pillar, 'Excellence and Sustainability,' emphasises financial acumen and the cultivation of a highly engaged workforce. SEMPHN staff's deep knowledge of the healthcare sector allows them to make informed, evidence-based decisions that support and develop our services and programs. 

I encourage you to explore the many insights contributed by SEMPHN staff and providers in this Annual Report. Their expertise, empathetic understanding of communities, and dedication to supporting local services make for an inspiring read.  

To our staff members, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your unwavering commitment to SEMPHN's goals. Your work tangibly contributes to creating a more equitable, person-centred, and seamless healthcare system that positively impacts the health outcomes of people in south east Melbourne. I’d also like to extend my thanks to my fellow Board Directors and our Committees (including our newly developed Strategic Initiatives Committee). It’s a privilege to be working with such an outstanding, skilled and insightful team of people.   

The 2023/24 Federal budget has brought about substantial investments in the health sector and transformative announcements as part of Medicare Reform. SEMPHN's role in the Reform will involve the rollout of MyMedicare and commissioning multidisciplinary care, to name a few. 

I sincerely hope you find this report as enlightening and inspiring as I did. It serves as a testament to the collective efforts of countless health professionals, service providers, community supporters and SEMPHN workforce over the past year. 

Thank you for your continued support of SEMPHN as we work together to enhance the health and well-being of the south east Melbourne community. 

- Sue Renkin, SEMPHN Chair