Allied Health Forum sparks innovation, connection and collaboration
From left, Senior Manager Primary Care Engagement Alison Jansen; Allied Health Engagement Lead Renelle Harrison; Chief Allied Health Officer, Australian Government, Anita Hobson-Powell; and Executive Integration and Partnerships Narelle Mills.
Allied health professionals from across the region gathered on Saturday 26 July for the first-ever Murrumbidgee Allied Health Forum, a landmark event focused on bold ideas, practical insights and real-world solutions.
Held at the International Hotel in Wagga Wagga, the 2025 forum embraced the theme Now and Next, shining a spotlight on what’s working in allied health today and where we’re heading into the future.
The forum was a significant milestone for Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN), with keynote speaker Chief Allied Health Officer Anita Hobson-Powell expressing her pleasure at being involved. During her visit, Ms Hobson-Powell also toured several allied health practices and attended a networking dinner with local allied health practitioners.
MPHN Allied Health Engagement Lead Renelle Harrison said the energy and connection in the room was a powerful reminder of the value of coming together.
“In a system that carries high clinical workloads and often a sense of isolation as practitioners, the chance to connect in person was incredibly valuable,” Ms Harrison said.
“There was so much positive discussion and blue sky thinking alongside practical examples of what’s already working well in our region. We heard about longstanding programs that are steadily growing and increasing in capacity, as well as fresh ideas that have a really bold vision. I think we need both for a strong future.”
The day featured an impressive line-up of speakers, case studies and interactive sessions:
Anita Hobson-Powell, Chief Allied Health Officer, Australian Government, provided a national perspective on how reform is reshaping the allied health landscape, including Medicare reform and the expanding role of allied health professions in primary care.
Rebecca Keeley, Founder and CEO of Yarn Speech, inspired attendees with insights on turning digital innovation into everyday practice, sharing the story behind Yarn Speech and its transformative impact in regional and remote communities.
Interactive case studies showcased successful multidisciplinary team models of care already operating in the Murrumbidgee region.
Other highlights included conversations around commissioning, the resource expo, and a lively panel on working effectively with Allied Health Assistants.
“We were proud to feature three local case studies that are already working innovatively to deliver great outcomes,” Ms Harrison said.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to learn from each other and celebrate the value of multidisciplinary care. We have such an exceptional cohort of practitioners doing great things in our region.”
The forum also highlighted the work of the Murrumbidgee Allied Health Advisory Committee (MAHAC), an advisory body established in 2024 to guide and support MPHN in building a sustainable allied health engagement function. MAHAC also plays a key role in localising and implementing the National PHN Allied Health in Primary Care Engagement Framework.
A huge thank you to all who contributed and helped bring the forum to life. For those who missed it, you can access online resources and presentation materials from the day here.
To stay informed about upcoming events, resources and sector updates, sign up for our first MPHN Allied Health newsletter, launching in August. Stay connected with us at mphn.org.au/alliedhealth
