A new chapter in healthcare for the Isaac region is under way, with Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) today opening proposals for three initiatives aimed at enhancing local health services, growing the health workforce, and improving access to care for local communities.
The initiatives will focus on Clermont, Dysart, Moranbah, Middlemount, Glenden, Nebo, and the coastal Isaac region, with communities prioritised according to local service needs and the level of risk to primary healthcare access.
The Request for Proposals (RFPs) include a community-led social enterprise general practice model, and additional GPs and nurse practitioners.
The RFPs are now open, with submissions closing on 16 October 2026.
These solutions form part of the Isaac Region Service System Recovery Plan and a system to secure the future of primary healthcare across the region.
The plan and the initiatives are based on consultation and co-design with practices and clinicians, Mackay Hospital and Health Service, Isaac Regional Council, industry and community stakeholders, and have been designed to tackle the unique challenges facing primary healthcare in the Isaac region, including workforce shortages, barriers to accessing care, and the sustainability of local services.
NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Ben Tooth said the RFPs represented a significant opportunity for organisations to be part of a long-term solution for the region.
“Every community deserves access to quality primary healthcare close to home, regardless of where they live,” Mr Tooth said.
“These initiatives are about creating sustainable models of care that build on local services, attract and retain health professionals, and ensure Isaac region communities can continue to access the healthcare they need now and into the future.”
The overall solution streams will work together to address both immediate workforce shortages and the long-term sustainability of primary healthcare across the Isaac region.
Opportunities are available now for organisations to establish a community-led social enterprise general practice model, and recruit additional GPs and Medicare-endorsed nurse practitioners.
Future opportunities will be available to partner with NQPHN to expand virtual primary care services through the existing Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP) program, while existing general practices in priority towns will also be able to apply for support to enhance practice systems, technology, and chronic disease management capabilities.
In addition, the initiatives will be supported by regional workforce relief arrangements, continuing professional development supports to help ensure long-term success. The relief program will support GPs and nurse practitioners across the Isaac region to take leave and participate in professional development while maintaining access to care for local communities.
The Isaac region is home to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and services must be culturally safe and accessible for First Nations people.
Current RFP opportunities include:
- Request for Proposal for Social Enterprise General Practice
- Request for Proposal GP Recruitment
- Request for Proposal Nurse Practitioner Recruitment
RFPs open today 21 September 2026 at 2pm and close 16 October 2026.
Further initiatives and opportunities will be announced in due course.
Organisations interested in delivering these initiatives are encouraged to review the RFP documentation and make a submission before applications close on 16 October 2026.
Further information, including tender documents and eligibility requirements, is available through NQPHN’s tender portal here.
The Isaac Region Service System Recovery Plan is funded by the Australian Government through the General Practice Incentive Fund Thin Markets Program and is being led by NQPHN.