The 25 October signing reinforces both organisations' commitments to advancing health service delivery and workforce development in the Northern Mallee region. It follows a previously signed MoU in 2021.
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said the renewed partnership would deepen collaboration to create a sustainable, innovative and responsive rural health ecosystem.
"Our strategic partnership with the Mildura Base Public Hospital will build on the initiatives we've already completed including clinical placement opportunities, research endeavours and the sharing of expertise and resources," Professor Farrell said.
"La Trobe's $4.97 million investment in a clinical simulation suite at the Mildura campus will support student growth and enrich the campus experience. The expansion directly responds to the needs of the rural health workforce, as identified through consultations with our partner organisations, especially the Mildura Base Public Hospital."
The MoU outlines a five-year framework with key areas of collaboration including increased Indigenous participation in health education, research development and innovative education that promotes lifelong learning, clinical placements and academic collegiality.
Terry Welch, MBPH CEO, said he was excited to continue the long-standing partnership with La Trobe.
"I am very much looking forward to building on the great foundation which has already been laid," Terry said.
"The signing of this latest MoU is an indication of the commitment both parties have to developing and educating our current and next generation of health workers in the region, which is important to the ongoing success of healthcare in the Northern Mallee."
The existing partnership between La Trobe and MBPH has resulted in projects that address workforce shortages, joint initiatives on rural health research and collaborative efforts in the region's jobs and skills development.
A significant achievement in 2022 was the introduction of the Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Midwifery at the Mildura campus, following concerns about the lack of midwives. La Trobe has been able to offer an additional 10 student places in this four-year double degree due to MBPH's commitment to providing extra placement hours.
Media Contacts
La Trobe University: Jess Whitty - j.whitty@latrobe.edu.au, 0481 383 817
Mildura Base Public Hospital: John Dooley - jdooley@mbph.org.au, 0404 475 687
