Primary Health Networks (PHNs) were established with the key objectives of increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of medical services for patients, particularly those at risk of poor health outcomes, and improving coordination of care to ensure patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time.

The South Eastern Melbourne PHN catchment encompasses an area comprising 1.6 million people and stretches from St Kilda to Sorrento and as far east as Bunyip, including the major population hubs of Monash, Dandenong, Moorabbin, Caulfield, Cranbourne, Frankston and Pakenham.

From 1 July, 2016 PHNs adopted a commissioning approach to procuring medical and health care services which is based on an assessment of the health and wellbeing needs of the community. This work determines the priority areas and guides the scope of the commissioning process.

The Victorian Department of Health has announced that 25 Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCCs) will be established in partnership with General Practitioners (GPs) in Victoria. PHNs will commission the PPCCs in their respective catchments.

The PPCC initiative aims to reduce demand on hospital emergency departments by providing a primary care service for urgent conditions that do not require an emergency response. PPCCs are GP-led services which increase access to primary care and provide care for people with conditions such as mild infections, fractures and burns.

PPCCs are open for extended hours (up to 16 hours per day), 7 days a week and is free for all people of all ages (with and without a Medicare card).

Note: Please submit one application per hospital site if applying for multiple hospitals.