Edward River Council has taken the next step in securing the future operation of the Deniliquin Medical Centre, authorising Chief Executive Officer, Jack Bond, to begin negotiations following the completion of an independently assessed Expressions of Interest (EOI) process.
The EOI process attracted four strong submissions from organisations interested in operating the Medical Centre, with Council now progressing to negotiations and due diligence with the preferred respondent identified through the evaluation process.
Mayor, Ashley Hall said the outcome was a positive milestone and demonstrated the process was progressing as planned.
“We’re pleased to have reached this stage and are looking forward to moving into negotiations with a preferred operator,” Mayor Hall said.
“There is still work to do, but we’re very optimistic about the future of the Medical Centre and look forward to sharing more with our community as soon as we can.”
The evaluation was undertaken by independent healthcare and procurement professionals with extensive experience in rural and regional healthcare service delivery and was conducted in accordance with an approved evaluation and probity framework.
CEO, Jack Bond said the strong response to the EOI process was encouraging.
“Receiving four quality submissions is a great result and reflects the value of this facility and the opportunities it presents,” Mr Bond said.
“Our focus is now on completing negotiations and due diligence to ensure any future arrangement supports long-term healthcare outcomes for our community.”
Council acknowledged the significant community interest in the future operation of the Medical Centre but emphasised that it is unable to disclose the identity of the preferred respondent at this stage.
The Council said it may also engage with more than one respondent as opportunities are explored to further strengthen healthcare services in the Edward River region.
“Information regarding the future operator will be released once negotiations have been completed and any necessary agreements have been finalised,” it stated.
The Deniliquin Medical Centre EOI process forms part of Council’s broader commitment to improving healthcare access across the Edward River region and aligns with the priorities identified in Council’s Advocacy Plan 2026-2029, including attracting and retaining doctors and allied health professionals, strengthening healthcare workforce sustainability and improving access to essential healthcare services.
For more information, visit:Â www.haveyoursay.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/deniliquin-medical-centre-lease.
