General News
16 September, 2024
GCH delivers $65m to regional economy
Grampians Community Health (GCH) is not only helping to build a healthier local communitybut making a significant contribution to the region’s economy, generating nearly $65 million a year.
New independent economic modelling by REMPLAN has found GCH’s influence extends beyond health and welfare services.
GCH supports 357 jobs and generates an extra $0.71 elsewhere in the economy for every $1 of direct revenue it receives.
GCH revenue during 2023-24 meant that $64.8 million was created for the state’s economy.
The value-added impact of GCH’s operations is estimated at $34.6 million to the local Grampians and Wimmera economy alone, demonstrating the organisation's substantial role in the region.
The modelling was done as part of an analysis of the 11 independent community health services that make up the Alliance of Rural and Regional Community Health, including GCH.
GCH CEO Greg Little said evidence of the economic impacts underscored the value of community health organisations.
“This new modelling shows the enormous impact we have on the region’s economy in addition to the health and welfare benefits of our services,” Mr Little said.
“We provide preventive health and welfare services that help people to stay out of hospital and live healthier lives in their own homes, and at the same time we make the economy more vibrant.
“The jobs and flow-on income that we generate strengthen the economic fabric of the region and support our local communities to thrive.”
GCH had direct annual revenue totalling $38.0 million over the 2023-24 financial year.
This direct output was produced through the delivery of services by 229 paid employees supported by 40 volunteers.
In addition to this direct impact, subsequent demand for intermediate goods and services was estimated to increase revenue for local supply chain industries by $7.6 million, support 27 jobs and generate $3.4 million in value-added products.
The report found independent community health services such as GCH stimulated economic growth in key local industry.
Administrative and support services, manufacturing and professional, scientific and technical services all benefitted from this flow-on impact.
The increase in employment from the supply chain impacts leads to an extra $19.2 million being spent in the region’s economy, including in retail, rental and manufacturing services.
Mr Little said this economic impact demonstrated that independent community health services were not just healthcare providers but were economic engines that bolstered the wellbeing and success of entire communities.