Community
16 December, 2025
Community health helps more than 5000 clients in record breaking year
GCH’s annual report released today shows 5,046 clients were supported by 230 staff and 36 volunteers, an increase of more than 1,000 on previous years.
GRAMPIANS Community Health (GCH) helped more than 5000 people over the past year, setting a new record for local support.
GCH’s annual report released today shows 5,046 clients were supported by 230 staff and 36 volunteers, an increase of more than 1,000 on previous years.
Chief executive Greg Little said much of the growth came from aged care and NDIS services, along with the introduction of new programs, including the community paramedic program, chronic health support programs, Diabetes Connect and other health-focused programs.
“We’re meeting targets and, in some cases, exceeding them and dealing with wait lists,” Mr Little said.
During the year, staff covered 769,871km while 168 volunteers drove 41,636km to take people to medical appointments. Staff also answered 36,686 phone calls, provided 21,659 hours of family violence support, 10,450 hours of carer support and respite, 1,653 hours supporting healthy mothers, healthy babies, 3,914 hours of counselling, 1,306 hours chronic disease management and 1,957 hours diabetes support.
A total of 1028 people accessed in-home supports and GCH supported around 250 home care package clients. There were 535 counselling referrals and 497 carers were supported.
GCH’s commitment to supporting people with a disability was evident with 839 NDIS participants in the past year.
The need continues in the region to provide support for people with alcohol and other drug issues, with 417 people seeking support.
Outgoing Chair Patricia Flood said GCH celebrated significant milestones during 2024-25, including accreditation under the QIC and National Mental Health Standards, while growing its regional impact with new programs dedicated to equitable community-based care.
“Throughout four decades of change, GCH has remained true to its purpose: standing beside people, responding to local needs, and supporting our communities,” she said.
Ms Flood said GCH would launch a new strategic plan in 2026 with the organisation well placed to meet future challenges.
After warning last year of tight financial times for community health services, GCH recorded its first deficit of $297,294 for almost 10 years despite revenue of more than $44 million. This follows a $60,665 surplus the previous financial year.
Mr Little said it was a tough environment for all community health services.
“Ongoing cost pressures and a lack of growth in community health funding cast a shadow over our work but our staff continue to give their all, as we advocate for more government support,” he said.
“We have made tough decisions and are budgeting for a break-even result this financial year,” he added.
GCH remains in a strong position with total net assets of more than $6 million.
Mr Little said GCH remained a strong advocate for the community with a deep commitment to connection and care. “Our role as custodians of the community health program is not taken lightly,” he said.
GCH was once again on the ground across the region during and after the summer bushfires, reopening relief centres and supporting recovery.
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