Urgent care clinic expansion is a step towards nurse-led, accessible care

Media release - 2nd March 2025

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The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) welcomes the Federal Government’s $644 million commitment to open another 50 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, which recognises the capacity of nurse-led care to reduce pressure on emergency departments and improve access to timely, high-quality care. 

“The Federal Government’s pledge to expand urgent care clinics shows nurse-led care is a smart solution for our health system, providing faster, more affordable access to primary health care for patients,” Chief Executive Officer Ken Griffin said. 

“Opening fifty additional urgent care clinics in areas where we know the population is booming and need is greatest will also ease the pressure on our hospitals,” 

“Urgent care clinics, led by our skilled nurses, ensure Australians get the care they need, when they need it, helping to keep people healthy and out of hospital emergency departments,” Mr Griffin said. 

APNA will continue to advocate for immediate action on the full recommendations of Professor Cormack’s three-year Scope of Practice Review to allow nurses to provide broader care to patients who are waiting for support.  

Media Contact: Rebecca Burdick Davies 0401 619 280