Health awareness campaigns
1800MEDICARE resources released
1800MEDICARE is a free phone line (1800 633 422), website and app providing 24/7 access to expert health information and advice, and connection to the right care at the right time.
The service is free and accessible to everyone in Australia, regardless of location—day or night.
Find resources: https://www.1800medicare.gov.au/resources
Dementia Support Australia
When a person living with dementia experiences changes in behaviour, Dementia Support Australia works with you to understand the causes and improve quality of life.
Access resources: https://resources.dementia.com.au/
Consumer Medicines Line to cease operations
The Consumer Medicines Line (1300 633 424) will cease on 30 July 2026 when the current funding agreement ends.
The service has provided medicines information and supported consumers to report suspected adverse events. It is not an emergency helpline.
Its closure supports a broader approach to strengthening primary care, with a focus on continuity of care and shared decision-making between consumers and their regular healthcare professionals.
Information to support consumers following closure is available on the Department’s website.
Organisations are encouraged to review and update public materials, websites and referral pathways to remove references to the Consumer Medicines Line.
Where consumers can seek support
Consumers should contact their regular GP, community pharmacist or healthcare provider for advice about medicines, including side effects.
If their usual provider is unavailable, they can contact:
1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) – available 24 hours, with registered nurses providing advice and service navigation
To report suspected adverse events from medicines or vaccination, consumers and health professionals can report directly to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA):
Overview of adverse event reporting for medicines | TGA
Report an adverse event or safety problem | TGA
Cervical screening primary care project
MPHN is raising awareness of cervical screening across the Murrumbidgee, as participation rates remain below optimal levels in many local government areas.
The project focuses on increasing participation, including self‑collection, among First Nations and culturally diverse communities.
If your LHAC is aware of events targeting priority populations where MPHN could host an information stall, contact Toni Preuss at toni.preuss@mphn.org.au with event details, including dates and times.
Free online suicide prevention training
Suicide prevention is everyone’s business. Strong communities, local connections and timely support all play an important role in saving lives.
MPHN works with local organisations, health professionals, workplaces and community members to build a more suicide-safe region through education, training, partnerships and practical resources.
Register: https://mphn.org.au/suicide-prevention
Mental health phone support
Medicare Mental Health provides a free, confidential phone service (1800 595 212) for anyone seeking advice or support, including carers and family members.
Trained professionals and peer workers connect callers to local services that best meet their needs.
Available weekdays, 8:30 am–5:00 pm (excluding public holidays).
Find out more on the Medicare Mental Health website.