Hay Shire Council targets housing for healthcare workers

By Tertia Butcher

Hay Shire Council is continuing its efforts to improve accommodation for key workers, and more recently for its Multi-Purpose Service facility manager, and has met with Murrumbidgee Local Health District to discuss opportunities in Hay.

MLHD currently owns eight onsite beds for staff working at Hay Multi-Purpose Service, and one leased two-bed unit.

In a letter to Council from Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Dr Michael Holland said MLHD was working on a longer-term solution and is reviewing accommodation options in Hay.

“This includes the development of Legacy housing and accommodation solutions that involve the proposed use of vacant government and MLHD land,” Dr Holland wrote.

“In June 2024, the NSW Government committed $200 million to increase key health worker accommodation across rural and regional areas of NSW.

“NSW Government will secure about 120 dwellings which may include the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and possible purchase of suitable properties.

“These homes will support the recruitment and retention of health workers and their families and the delivery of essential health services in regional NSW.

“I am advised MLHD is working with the Ministry for Health, who is collaborating with Homes NSW on key worker accommodation strategies.”

Image: Stock