Overview: New Medicare Mental Health Centre Tenders
The Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has opened a competitive bidding process to establish and operate new Medicare Mental Health Centre (MMHC) services. Organisations with proven capability and capacity are invited to submit a response to the Request for Proposal (RFP) to deliver MMHC services on the Central Coast and in the Tamworth/Armidale region. This initiative aims to enhance access to mental health care, streamline patient pathways, and provide intensive case management, community-based care, and integrated supports for people living with complex mental health needs.
What are Medicare Mental Health Centres (MMHCs)?
MMHCs are integrated service hubs designed to deliver coordinated, person-centered mental health care under the Medicare umbrella. They bring together primary care, allied health, and community services to support people with severe or persistent mental illness, aiming to reduce hospital admissions and improve overall quality of life. The new MMHCs will operate within a clear governance framework and will be aligned with clinical best practices and evidence-based interventions.
Scope of the RFP
The RFP calls for an organisation to establish and operate MMHC services across two geographic areas: (1) the Central Coast and (2) Tamworth/Armidale. Proponents must demonstrate a track record in mental health service delivery, capacity to coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and the ability to scale services to meet local demand. The successful bidder will be responsible for program design, staffing, service delivery, performance reporting, and continuous quality improvement in collaboration with local health partners.
Key capabilities sought
- Strong governance and financial management skills to sustain MMHC operations
- Clinical leadership and multidisciplinary care teams (psychiatry, psychology, social work, occupational therapy, nursing)
- Evidence-based care coordination, case management, and crisis intervention
- Robust information systems for patient records, data reporting, and performance metrics
- Community engagement and partnerships with local health services and community organisations
Eligibility and how to participate
Eligible organisations typically include registered health providers with demonstrated experience in mental health, primary care integration, or related community services. Interested applicants should examine the RFP documentation for detailed eligibility criteria, submission requirements, and timelines. Proponents are encouraged to outline their approach to service design, workforce planning, cultural safety, and outcomes measurement. Partnerships with local GP networks, hospitals, and allied health services may strengthen proposals.
Evaluation and expected outcomes
RFP responses will be evaluated against criteria such as capability, service design quality, patient outcomes, value for money, and the organisation’s ability to deliver sustainable services over the contract term. Outcomes anticipated from successful MMHC delivery include improved access to mental health care, reduced emergency presentations, enhanced care coordination, and better integration of physical and mental health services for residents of the Central Coast and Tamworth/Armidale regions.
Timeline and next steps
Applicants should monitor the RFP timetable for key dates, including submission deadlines, clarification periods, and anticipated contract award. After evaluation, successful proponents will work with HNECC PHN to finalize service agreements and commence implementation. Stakeholders and the community can expect ongoing communication about program development and service availability as MMHCs come online.
How this benefits the community
The MMHC program is designed to deliver more accessible, integrated mental health care closer to home. By coordinating primary care, specialised mental health supports, and community services, the MMHCs aim to reduce fragmentation, promote early intervention, and improve health outcomes for individuals with complex mental health needs across the Central Coast and Tamworth/Armidale regions.
Conclusion
For organisations with the right mix of clinical expertise, governance, and local partnerships, this is a significant opportunity to shape the future of mental health care in northern New South Wales. Submitting a robust, evidence-based RFP response will be essential to securing a role in delivering Medicare Mental Health Centre services and advancing long-term community health outcomes.
