Overview: New Medicare Mental Health Centres to Enhance Care
The Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has opened a competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting organisations with proven capability to establish and operate new Medicare Mental Health Centre (MMHC) services. The initiative targets the Central Coast and the Tamworth/Armidale region, aiming to expand access to high-quality, community-based mental health care for Australians eligible for Medicare funded services.
What is an MMHC and Why It Matters
Medicare Mental Health Centres are designed to provide integrated, early intervention and ongoing support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. MMHCs typically offer a range of services, including initial assessments, collaborative care planning, case management, and coordinated access to allied health professionals. By consolidating services under a single hub, MMHCs seek to improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital admissions, and streamline care pathways for communities that historically faced gaps in service delivery.
Goals of the Tender
- Expand access to timely, evidence-based mental health care in the Central Coast and Tamworth/Armidale regions.
- Institute sustainable operating models that align with national mental health priorities and funding rules.
- Foster integrated care through multidisciplinary teams, digital health tools, and robust care coordination.
- Deliver a patient-centred experience with culturally safe practices and strong governance.
Eligibility and How to Respond
Organisations submitting proposals should demonstrate:
- Operational capacity and track record in delivering mental health or related primary care services.
- Strong governance, financial viability, and the ability to scale services to meet demand.
- Experience in delivering Medicare-funded services, including compliance with funding rules and reporting requirements.
- Commitment to workforce development, data-driven quality improvement, and continuous service evaluation.
Interested providers must prepare a comprehensive response to the RFP, addressing program design, staffing, service delivery model, partnerships with other health services, and a clear sustainability plan. Proposals should also describe outcomes measurement, risk management, and local community engagement strategies.
Timeline and Next Steps
Details about submission deadlines and evaluation criteria are provided in the RFP document. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to present their proposals or participate in interviews. After a rigorous evaluation process, HNECC PHN will announce preferred providers and negotiate service delivery agreements.
Impact on Local Communities
By establishing MMHCs on the Central Coast and in Tamworth/Armidale, the program aims to:
- Improve access to timely mental health support within a coordinated, patient-centred framework.
- Strengthen collaboration across general practice, hospital services, and community organisations.
- Support local workforce development and retention through dedicated training and development opportunities.
Where to Find the RFP Details
Prospective bidders should consult the HNECC PHN’s official procurement portal or contact the procurement team for the RFP package, clarifications, and submission instructions. It is essential to review all requirements, including regulatory compliance, data security standards, and reporting obligations before submitting a proposal.
Conclusion
The opening of tenders for Medicare Mental Health Centres marks a significant step in expanding primary mental health care in regional New South Wales. By inviting capable providers to participate, HNECC PHN seeks to deliver sustainable, high-quality MMHC services that meet community needs while aligning with national health priorities.
