Review of the National Rural Health Commissioner Legislative Framework

Overview

Almost 30% of Australians live in rural and remote areas, where research consistently shows poorer health outcomes compared to urban populations. These disparities include higher rates of illness and mortality, which worsen with increasing remoteness (AIHW).

The National Rural Health Commissioner (NRHC) was first established in 2017 as an independent statutory role to drive reforms that improve health outcomes for rural and remote communities. Amendments to the Health Insurance Act 1973 (Act) came into effect from June 2020 to continue the NRHC and define the current functions and operations of the NRHC (Part VA).

Section 79AD of the Act outlines the functions of the NRHC.

The Commissioner’s work is guided by this legislation and is informed by extensive stakeholder consultation.

In October 2025, an independent review began of the legislative framework that governs the NRHC. This review is required under the Act and will:

• Assess the effectiveness, relevance, and impact of the current legislative framework.
• Examine how the NRHC’s activities align with legislative expectations and broader policy mechanisms, such as the Ministerial Statement of Expectations and the Commissioner’s Statement of Intent.
• Recommend any legislative changes needed to ensure the framework remains fit-for-purpose and supports the NRHC’s role in improving rural health outcomes.

The review will focus on Part VA of the Act and therefore will not include review of the functions of the NRHC prior to 2020. It will also consider the wider enabling environment that supports the NRHC, including the roles of Deputy Commissioners and the Office of the NRHC.

This consultation seeks feedback from stakeholders to help shape recommendations that strengthen the NRHC’s impact and ensure the legislative framework continues to meet the needs of rural and remote Australians.

Who should participate?
This consultation is seeking input from stakeholders across the rural health sector, including rural and remote health professionals, service providers, community representatives, peak bodies, and anyone with an interest in improving health outcomes for rural and remote Australians.

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help shape recommendations that strengthen the NRHC’s impact and ensure the legislative framework continues to meet the needs of rural and remote communities.