National Rural Health Commissioner
Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner
November 2017 – present
Independent statutory office that advises the federal health minister on rural health and on improving health services and the health workforce in rural and remote Australia, and led the development of the National Rural Generalist Pathway.
How it came into existence
Created by the Health Insurance Amendment (National Rural Health Commissioner) Act 2017, which amended the Health Insurance Act 1973. Paul Worley took office as the first commissioner in late 2017. It is supported by staff of the health department and had no predecessor body.
Legislation: Health Insurance Act 1973
Changes during its life
- 2020The office was continued beyond its first term and expanded, with Ruth Stewart appointed commissioner and deputy commissioners appointed to support her.
- 1 July 2022Moved to the Department of Health and Aged Care when the Department of Health was renamed.
- 13 May 2025Moved to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing when the Department of Health and Aged Care was renamed.
Main functions
- Advice to the Minister on rural health
- Development of the National Rural Generalist Pathway
- Advocacy for rural and remote health services and workforce
- Consultation with rural health stakeholders
Where it sits
In the portfolio of Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
Lineage
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Sources
Primary sources
- Australian Government Organisations Register (Department of Finance, data.gov.au) (listed from 31 December 2017 to the latest release (30 June 2026))
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.