Rural health research networks, supported by corporate and community partnerships, are essential for addressing the health disparities faced by rural and remote populations. 

By combining resources, enhancing communication, ensuring sustainability, and building local research capacity, these collaborations can lead to significant improvements in health outcomes for individuals living in rural communities.

The challenge we face:

Approximately 30% of Australians live in rural and remote areas

Australians living in rural and remote areas generally have poorer health than their urban counterparts

People living in rural and remote areas have less access to health professionals and services

Funding for research specifically aimed to deliver health benefits to Australians living in rural and remote areas is significantly under representative of the need

Barclay, L., Phillips, A., & Lyle, D. (2023). Rural and remote health research: Does the investment match the need? Rural and Remote Health, 23(1), 1-12.

Latest News

WHRN2026

WHRN2026 Title and Date Announced

The Western NSW Health Research Network is proud to announce the WHRN 2026 Research Symposium: “Innovating for Health Equity: Bridging Gaps in Rural Healthcare” This symposium presents a unique opportunity

Read More »
Governance

AGM 2025

Congratulations to the newly elected Western NSW Health Research Network Executive for 2026. Co-Chair: Catherine Keniry (elected unopposed) Co-Chair, First Nations: Deb Kenna (elected unopposed) Deputy Chairperson: Alice Munro (elected

Read More »
WHRN2025

WHRN2025 Wrap

WHRN2025, held on November 3rd and 4th, at CSU Orange Campus, served as an opportunity for sharing innovative research and developing collaboration among health professionals, researchers, and community stakeholders in

Read More »