Are you passionate about rural healthcare? We are now accepting expressions of interest to join us as a HOC Wellbeing Connector - Birdsville, to be the primary link between residents and the services, activities and supports needed to achieve their personal wellbeing goals. If you or someone you know is up for the challenge, keep reading!
About Western Queensland PHN
Western Queensland Primary Health Network (WQPHN) is an independent, not‑for‑profit organisation funded by the Australian Government to strengthen primary health care across Western Queensland. We work in close partnership with local health providers, communities and key stakeholders to understand the unique needs of rural and remote populations and deliver services that ensure people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. We are committed to strong governance, culturally safe practice, and supporting our people to do meaningful work that delivers real benefits for communities.
What is Healthy Outback Communities (HOC)?
Staying healthy and well in the outback can be tough. Healthy Outback Communities (HOC) is an innovative approach to health and wellbeing designed specifically for the residents of Western Queensland's channel country. Beginning in Barcoo Shire in 2024, and expanding to the Diamantina Shire in 2026, HOC is here to help residents improve their health and wellbeing and focus on staying healthy instead of just treating illness.
Helping people to live healthier lives will complement the care already provided by outreach teams, nurse-led health centres and visiting (RFDS) doctors.
About the Role
Working in the community, the HOC Wellbeing Connector acts as the primary link between residents and the services, activities and supports needed to achieve their personal wellbeing goals. The HOC Wellbeing Connector is not a healthcare expert; rather, they bring strong local knowledge and deep connections within their community. They keep residents informed of existing and new services. They focus on understanding community health and wellbeing needs and together with the wider HOC team, identify what services, resources and activities will best support their community long term.
Key Responsibilities
- Community capacity building
- Work closely with Shires, Primary Health Centres, visiting health services, community organisations, and health and wellbeing activities/events to identify resources and understand what services are available to people.
- Develop and maintain a community calendar, contacts list, and resource directory for all services and activities in community.
- Identify and connect with the best local communication channels/platforms for broad community reach to promote HOC initiatives and any good news stories
- Collaborate with other agencies to identify gaps in the provision of services and activities based on community needs
- Coordination and management of activities
- Increase awareness in the community and promote the benefits of the HOC approach
- Encourage residents to register to the Healthy Outback Communities Club.
- Build relationships, and advocate within the community to promote prevention of illness across life stages
- Work on developing pathways/links to external resources (including e-health)
- Work with the HOC team to support follow-up access and coordination to social services and activities, to assist people to navigate the health system.
- Provide a comprehensive orientation to the community for all visiting services, to ensure better coordination of services
- Work with service providers to coordinate “surge” activities when identified as a need within the community.
About You
This role suits someone who is deeply connected to their community and motivated by making a positive, practical difference in people’s everyday lives, you will bring:
A strong understanding of your community and the needs of regional and remote communities
Ability to prepare clear and concise business communication documents and records including reports, emails, and general correspondence.
Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision, manage conflicting deadlines and demonstrate effective problem-solving skills as part of a regionally dispersed team.
Highly developed interpersonal communication skills to build and maintain internal and external relationships.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office (including SharePoint) and other office productivity tools, with aptitude to learn new software and systems.
Hold or be eligible for a Blue Card under the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000.
Our Working Environment
This role will be based in the Diamantina Shire. The remuneration package for this role includes attractive tax-exempt salary packaging options, and a regional allowance for employees residing within the Western Queensland region. Hybrid work-from-home arrangements also apply.
Why Join WQPHN?
Make a real impact on your community and wellbeing outcomes across rural and remote Western Queensland.
Work with a passionate, multidisciplinary team in a values-driven organisation.
Access generous salary packaging benefits.
Flexible role with professional development and peer support opportunities.
Contribute to initiatives that embed strong governance, community engagement, and reconciliation principles.
Our Commitment to Reconciliation
WQPHN is committed to undertaking all work within a culturally inclusive, sensitive and safe framework that supports Reconciliation. The WQPHN Reconciliation Action Plan shows our commitment and dedication to embedding reconciliation initiatives into our everyday work.
Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged for all WQPHN positions.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role.
Enquiries: hr@wqphn.com.au
Applications close: Sunday 3 May 2026
