The Victorian Healthcare Association (VHA) has released its priorities for the 2026 State Election, and with members, is calling on political leaders to future-proof Victoria’s publicly funded healthcare system.
Over the last decade, Victoria’s health system has navigated complex challenges. Rising chronic disease, combined with the impacts of an ageing population have required changes to the types of services Victorians require, and when and where they need to be delivered. At the same time, the rising cost of living has had impacts for the sustainability of health systems in Victoria and across the globe.
The next four years presents a critical opportunity for the incoming Government to leverage innovation, commitment and collaboration across the sector. Now is the time to foster a system where prevention is prioritised, digital opportunities are brought forward and care can be accessed from a range of healthcare settings.
As a sector representing one-third of the current state’s Budget ($31 billion), healthcare is an essential service and expected to be a major focus across the forthcoming election. Increasing demand for healthcare requires a forward-looking approach that prioritises prevention and early intervention, sustainable and long-term funding cycles, strategic workforce and infrastructure planning and digital reform and innovation.
The VHA has put forward 6 priorities for the Victorian Public Healthcare System:
The priorities outlined in the VHA’s priorities for the 2026 State Election [insert link] look to strengthen public healthcare and meet the needs of Victorians now and into the future. With the right policy settings and investment, Victoria’s publicly funded healthcare system can lead the nation in delivering accessible, equitable and sustainable care.
Read the VHA 2026 State Election Priorities here
For further information contact:
Amelia Condi
General Manager, Policy and Advocacy
Visit our website: www.vha.org.au