The community has the opportunity to contribute to what the health priorities should be over the next five years for Northern NSW by providing feedback on the draft Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030, launched this week.
The Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) currently serves an estimated population of 314,905 people. By 2041, the population will increase to more than 336,000 people, with most of that growth taking place in the Ballina, Byron and Tweed local government areas. Most of this growth will take place in the older age groups, with around one in four people in NNSWLHD expected to be aged 70 years and older by 2041.
The Strategic Plan looks at ways in which healthcare is delivered, including through the expansion of virtual services and services delivered outside of the hospital setting. It also looks to the safe adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and working closely with partners to adapt and strengthen to meet this need.
‘The Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030 sets out the priorities and enablers to help NNSWLHD meet the future health needs of the region with purpose and clarity. It aligns with NSW Health priorities and responds to the unique needs of this region,’ said NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey.
‘Looking to the future, we will see shifts in the population, with an ageing population affected by more complex health needs, driving greater health service demand. We need to make sure we are prepared for this – and work together to keep our community focused on being as healthy as we can.
‘We’re now asking staff and the community to review our plan and share their feedback before it is finalised,’ Ms Maisey said.
‘Tell us what resonates with you and let us know if there is something more we could do to ensure we are best prepared for the years that lie ahead.’
Have your say on the Draft Strategic Plan 2025-2030 via the linked survey, by Thursday, 31 July, 2025.
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