Victorian Election Platform: Affordable Care in Every Community
6 August 2026
Media Release
Victorians are putting off getting the care that keeps them well because they can’t afford it or wait times are too long. Community health could fix this and is calling one cent in every dollar spent on health to be directed to local community-based care.
Community Health First, representing all 21 of Victoria's registered independent community health organisations, today launched its 2026 election platform, calling on all parties and candidates to lift the Community Health Program from 42 cents in every $100 of health spending to $1.
Every Victorian should be able to access care and support close to home when they need it, whatever their income. But as the cost of living continues to rise, too many Victorians are going without the care that keeps them well.
Community health organisations are here to help at this exact moment, already low cost and affordable support , but demand is increasing, services are stretched thin, and waiting lists are growing.
Community health is the front door to care for around 1 in 10 Victorians, particularly those who fall through the gaps of mainstream services. We know these services work - 92% of clients say community health helps them better manage their health and wellbeing, a strong marker of preventative impact.
Governments can keep investing in expensive hospitals or we can invest in services and supports that keep people healthy and well and stop them needing to go to hospital in the first place.
Deputy Chair of Community Health First, Natalie Sullivan said we know that healthy communities are more connected and resilient, and that is the future we should be investing in.
"Good health is the foundation of a good life. It’s what lets Victorians work, care for the people they love, and stay connected and active in their communities.
But right now, families across Victoria are weighing up rent, groceries, and power bills against a physio appointment, a mental health session, or a check-up they know they need.
This is impacting their short and long term health and changing the connections and fabric of our communities.”
A postponed appointment saves money this week. But a chest infection left too long, or blood pressure that goes unchecked, can become a hospital admission and a far greater cost to the person and to the health system.
Victoria records more than 550,000 potentially preventable emergency department presentations each year, costing more the health system more than $500 million.
Community health can help reduce these costs, providing low-cost care close to home, that means people don’t end up in hospital.
Ms Sullivan said the investment would strengthen communities as well as individual health.
"Healthy communities are connected communities. When people can get help close to home, they stay well, stay working, and stay part of the life of their town or suburb," she said.
"With the right investment, community health can be there for every Victorian, when and where they need it. Without it, more Victorians will go without the care that keeps them well.
"$1 in every $100 would double the hours of care we can provide, and a fair share of infrastructure funding would give our communities the buildings they need. It's a modest ask for a sector that will make a real different to how quickly people can get seen and takes pressure off the most expensive part of the system.
We're asking for one dollar so the other 99 can go further."
Community Health First is calling on all parties and candidates to commit to equitable health reforms ahead of the November election. The full election policy is available here: Victorian Election 2026.
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For media comment or interviews email contact@communityhealthfirst.org.au
Community Health First is an initiative led by all 21 registered independent community health services in Victoria united by one shared goal – improving the health, wellbeing and quality of life for all Victorians.