In 2026, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is strengthening its commitment to general practices by delivering regionally tailored support and opportunities that make a real difference to team members and patients.
To facilitate this approach we have divided our catchment into three regions, which match Local Health Service Networks. This will ensure closer alignment and planning in collaboration within local tertiary, and primary care services.
There regions are:
- Central, comprising the local government areas of Melbourne, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley and Yarra.
- West, comprising Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton, Moorabool and Wyndham.
- North, comprising Darebin, Hume and Macedon Ranges.
Within each of these, NWMPHN will allocate every practice a dedicated primary care facilitator (PCF) – a local contact who understands the community and helps the team connect, collaborate, and thrive.
What this means for each practice
- Personalised support: the PCF will mentor the team, provide practical guidance for quality improvement, and help navigate reforms, resources, and NWMPHN programs.
- Local networking and education: access face-to-face events, including mentoring programs, peer connect sessions, nurse skill shares, and multidisciplinary workshops, all designed to build capability and foster collaboration.
- Data and insights: receive region-specific information to inform activity development to support primary care improve patient outcomes.
- Stronger connections: build relationships with allied health and other providers to enhance referral pathways and integrated care.
These opportunities are about building relationships, strengthening local referral pathways, and supporting delivery of high quality care.
Together, we can create a connected health community that understands local needs and works collaboratively for better patient outcomes.
Look out for these opportunities in the new year
- Practice Catalyst is a practice support and quality improvement tool that scores practices against 5 domains of general practice and creates a bespoke action plan after completion. Closing date is 31 January, 2026. Assistance is available, if needed.
- Our mentoring program pairs experienced practice managers with those seeking guidance and support in their career development. The initiative fosters knowledge sharing, builds confidence, and helps participants navigate challenges while working toward their professional goals.
- Practice Manager Peer Connect is designed for networking, sharing insights, and discussing common challenges in a supportive environment. The sessions encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and the exchange of best practices to strengthen management capabilities across the region.
- Nurse Skill Share provides a platform for nurses to learn from one another through practical demonstrations, case discussions, and peer-led education. It focuses on enhancing clinical skills, promoting continuous learning, and improving patient care standards locally.
- Regional multidisciplinary workshops will bring together professionals from various primary care disciplines to collaborate on topics that impact patient care and service delivery. They offer interactive learning, team-based problem-solving, and opportunities to build strong regional networks that support integrated care.
NWMPHN will email each practice shortly with details of the assigned primary care facilitator. We look forward to working with you again in 2026!
Connect with us
Request an appointment online on our website here.
Email: primarycare@nwmphn.org.au
Phone: (03) 9347 1188
