Our History

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN), in its various iterations, has been supporting primary healthcare in the Murrumbidgee for more than 30 years. firsthealth Limited, the organisation operating MPHN, has a history dating back to July 1993, when the Wagga Wagga & District Division of General Practice was established. Several name changes ensued, including the Riverina Division of General Practice and the Murrumbidgee Medicare Local. The organisations full timeline can be found below.

Since the organisation’s humble beginnings in the mid-1990s supporting general practices in Wagga Wagga and surrounds, it has grown to now support various primary healthcare providers and community across a much larger geographic area. Regardless of the remit determined by the government of the day, there has been one constant – an organisation dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of our communities and the primary healthcare workforce, which we continue to do everyday as stated in our vision of Well People, Resilient Communities.

Throughout the years the organisation has faced many challenges and triumphs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workforce challenges have remained constant along with the organisation's resilience and commitment to overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of better health outcomes. These strong foundations and partnerships created throughout the past 30 years positions MPHN and firsthealth Limited well to continue to innovate, inspire and transform the local health system.

In May 2024, MPHN proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary for an evening of reflection current and past employees, directors and stakeholders. On the night a panel discussion that provided a platform for sharing memories and discussing the organisation's journey and you can watch the full official proceedings below. One of the highlights was Nancye Piercy's inspiring account of the fight to establish Murrumbidgee as the 31st PHN, a significant milestone that has had a lasting impact on healthcare delivery in the region.

This celebration was not only a testament to MPHN's enduring legacy but also an opportunity to honour the contributions of individuals who have been instrumental in its success over the past 30 years. Watch what some of the guests had to say on the night about their involvement with the organisation throughout the past 30 years in the video below.