Disaster Recovery Workforce Support Grants Program

Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) is inviting general practices, pharmacies, and allied health providers in the GCPHN region to apply for grants of up to $5,000 per practice.

This funding aims to support workforce retention in areas affected by ex-Cyclone Alfred so businesses can open and provide access to vital healthcare services for the Gold Coast community (especially vulnerable populations) impacted by the disaster.

Who can apply: 

General practices, pharmacies, and allied health providers within the Gold Coast regional boundaries who:

• Provide health services to vulnerable populations
• Have been directly impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred (5 – 12 March 2025).

This funding is not available for Medicare Urgent Care Clinics.

Allocated funding may be used for: 

• Hiring additional staff to maintain operations or manage increased demand following ex-Cyclone Alfred. This includes short-term clinical, administrative, auxiliary, and security personnel as needed.
• Covering additional/overtime staffing costs in accordance with current award rates. E.g., staff worked over the weekend to clean-up, protect vaccines etc so the practice could open as planned on Monday.
• Extending opening hours (e.g., evenings and weekends) to improve access for disaster-affected patients or clients.
• Funding wages for extended hours to support increased service demand.
• Supporting travel expenses for practitioners commuting due to displacement.

Funding is not for: 

• Repairs or maintenance
• Replacing equipment (e.g, fridges for vaccine)
• Purchasing equipment (e.g., generators)

How to apply:

1. Read through the Disaster Recovery Workforce Support Grant Guidelines before beginning the application.
2. Submit an online application with relevant supporting documents by 28 April 2025. This can be done through the ‘apply now’ button below or by clicking here.
3. Applications are presented to the selection committee for review and selection of successful applicants and applicants will be notified of successful or unsuccessful outcome via email.
4. Successful applicants will enter into a Funding Agreement with GCPHN, followed by the release of funds.

Applications open 4 April 2025 and close 28 April 2025.