Acknowledgement of Country and commitment to diversity
CheckUP staff and board respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and recognise their continuing connection to the land, water, and community. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and future leaders.
CheckUP strongly supports equality for all. We embrace diversity and condemn any kind of discrimination, be it on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
A member of the Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company performing a Welcome to Country at the CheckUP 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner.
Message from the Chair and CEO
The past 12 months have been a milestone period for CheckUP as we celebrated 25 years of operation. From our inception as Queensland Divisions of General Practice and General Practice Queensland to our rebranding as CheckUP Australia in 2013, this journey reflects a significant evolution. Over this quartercentury, we have witnessed profound technological, environmental, and societal changes that have reshaped the way we live and work.
While these advancements have enhanced the quality of healthcare delivery, some challenges remain unchanged. For instance, residents of rural and remote regions in Queensland, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, continue to experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts. Access to healthcare in these areas remains fragmented and inconsistent, underscoring the enduring importance of the work we carry out in partnership with our valued health service providers and collaborators.
During 2023–2024, we further strengthened our partnerships with Primary Health Networks, Hospital and Health Services, Community Controlled Health Organisations, our members, and the broader health and community services NGO sector. A significant part of our year was dedicated to engaging with these critical partners.
To commemorate our 25th anniversary, we hosted a series of “thank you” networking events in Toowoomba, Townsville, Cairns, and Brisbane. These regional visits offered us invaluable opportunities to connect directly with local service providers, partners, and our members, providing critical insights to inform the planning and delivery of services to the communities most in need.
To illustrate the impact of our outreach programs and to celebrate the dedication of our health service providers, we produced a short video titled Closer to Home in early 2024. We extend our gratitude to the providers and consumers who participated in the video, which can be viewed via the QR code below.
The past year also marked significant growth in our workforce programs. New Industry Skills Advisors and Industry Workforce Advisors in health and community services joined the CheckUP team, enhancing our capacity to address workforce challenges faced by many Queensland communities. Our workforce development initiatives focus on building sector capacity, innovative workforce planning, and supporting pathways from education to employment.
A standout highlight was the inaugural #GoHealth Careers Expo, held in June 2024. Supported by Queensland Health, this event attracted 1,900 students, making it our largest event to date. The enthusiasm of the 56 exhibitors and the energy of the attending high school students were truly inspiring. These students are our future health workforce and their excitement about pursuing careers in healthcare reinforces the importance of initiatives such as this.
Finally, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and contributions of the CheckUP Board and staff. Their unwavering commitment to our values and purpose drives the impact we achieve.
Mr Colin Duff Chair CheckUP Board
Ann Maree Liddy Chief Executive Officer CheckUP
Scan the QR code to view the “Healthcare closer to home” video.
Our Vision, Purpose & Values
Vision
Better health for people and communities that need it most.
Purpose
To create healthier communities and reduce health inequities.
Values
Collaboration
We are proactive in building long term, mutual and respectful partnerships with external organisations.
Excellence We are solutions focused and results driven to meet the needs of our customers.
Innovation We are forward thinking: we embrace change and seize opportunity.
Integrity We are transparent and honest in our actions and invest in socially responsible solutions.
Compassion
We act with care and consideration in all our interactions; everyone matters.
Respect and tribute to Cleveland Fagan
On 10 June 2024, we were greatly saddened by the unexpected passing of Cleveland Fagan. Cleveland was a long-serving health leader in Queensland. I was lucky to have known Cleveland for many years, starting with his roles at Queensland Health, then as CEO at various organisations. I was privileged to call him a friend and know that his passing leaves an enormous gap in the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations sector, both across Queensland and nationally. Our care and thoughts continue for Cleveland’s family who have lost their beloved husband, son, dad, and brother.
Ann Maree Liddy Chief Executive Officer CheckUP
Meet our Board
Mr Colin Duff Chair
Colin Duff is a strategic business leader and professional board member on various boards with 35+ years of experience, excelling in consultancy, mergers, acquisitions, and governance. He drives growth, transformation, and operational optimisation across diverse industries.
Ms Jennifer Pouwer Deputy Chair
Jennifer Pouwer is tertiary qualified in allied health (occupational therapy) and with post-graduate qualifications, memberships, and experience in corporate governance (Australian Institute of Company Directors, Governance Institute of Australia, and Women on Boards).
Dr David Rowlands OAM Chair, Finance and Risk Management Committee
Dr David Rowlands OAM has been a GP on the Gold Coast for over 30 years. David is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, with over 20 years’ experience as a Company Director. David served as Chair of the Gold Coast PHN Board, the Gold Coast Medicare Local, and the Gold Coast Division of General Practice. In 2021, David was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to Medicine in General Practice. David was appointed to the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Board (SCHHB) in 2022, and in 2024 David was appointed Chair of the SCHHB.
Ms Jane Williams Director
Jane Williams is an experienced Board Chair and Director across several sectors including Health, and NFP organisations. With 30 years experience in health and an extensive background in rural and remote emergency nursing, Jane has developed a wealth of transferable skills, networks, and experiences. These include enduring partnerships, leadership, governance, financial management, stakeholder engagement and strategic planning.
Mr Kieran Chilcott Director
Kieran Chilcott is the CEO of Kalwun Development Corporation Ltd, a large Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation on the Gold Coast that delivers comprehensive health and human services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He holds a Bachelor of Education (Behaviour Management major) and tertiary qualifications in leadership, governance, training, project management, and mental health.
Ms Merrilyn Strohfeldt Director
Merrilyn Strohfeldt, who retired as the CEO of Darling Downs West Moreton PHN in early 2022, works in health consulting and as a member of the Darling Downs Health Board. She is an expert leader in primary health across Australian and State Government jurisdictions, the not-for-profit sector, and private industry.
Dr Tina Janamian Director
Adjunct Associate Professor Tina Janamian is the Group Chief Executive Officer at the Australian General Practice Accreditation Ltd (AGPAL) Group of Companies. She brings a diverse background and extensive experience spanning academia, healthcare transformation, workforce development, and health services research. In addition to her executive leadership, Tina has contributed her governance expertise to various not-for-profit boards.
Ms Amanda Boland Company Secretary
Amanda Boland is the Managing Director of Business Governance Solutions, and has extensive C-suite and governance experience, providing corporate governance and strategic business advisory services to charities and for-profit organisations.
Reconciliation
Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
CheckUP is dedicated to working collaboratively and respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities and acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land and sea.
The organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) journey commenced in 2012, and CheckUP remains committed to deepening relationships with First Nations peoples through embedded reconciliation initiatives.
Cultural Responsiveness training
602 people completed Level 1
475 people completed Level 2
Stretch RAP highlights include:
• CheckUP staff, individuals, and organisations, contracted to deliver CheckUP Outreach services, and CheckUP member organisations, were provided with free access to the Cultural Responsiveness training program offered by Indigenous Allied Health Australia (IAHA) during 2023-24. The two online courses (Level 1 and Level 2) aim to equip our team and partner organisations with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive healthcare services. Level 1 was completed by 602 people and Level 2 was completed by 475 people.
• CheckUP staff participated in a cultural responsiveness workshop facilitated by IAHA
• CheckUP facilitated a reconciliation session at our June 2024 Queensland Primary Health Care Network (QPHCN) event
• Created an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Business Procurement Policy and commenced developing a document on Cultural Protocols for staff
• Updated the Cultural Learning Strategy
• Reviewed and updated all HR policies to ensure cultural appropriateness and safety
• The Youth Industry Partnerships for Education and Employment (YIPEE) School-to-work transition project in North and Far North Queensland assisted over 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with industry talks, workshops, and school-based traineeships
• The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group continued to meet regularly throughout the year and provided advice to the CheckUP Board.
Reconciliation June 2024 QPHCN event
The reconciliation session, chaired by Kieran Chilcott, CheckUP Board Director, commenced with a didgeridoo performance from the Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company. Following the performance, there was a conversation about the theme “Now more than ever” with Cas Nest (consumer) and Jesse Green (Yilay), followed by presentations from Sophie Bolge (Reconciliation Australia) and Tara Lewis (IAHA).
CheckUP is committed to continuing the journey of reconciliation with the First Nations people.
Jesse Green (Yilay) is pictured above with the CheckUP team at the Reconciliation Week QPHCN event.
#GoHealth Expo attendees are pictured with Ann Maree Liddy, CheckUP CEO.
Outreach health services
Better health for people and communities that need it most
CheckUP is focused on ensuring everyone has the right to equitable access to health services, regardless of economic, social, cultural, or geographical circumstances.
Our Outreach team coordinates a suite of health service delivery programs to address health service needs and service gaps in communitites across Queensland.
With the support of over 150 contracted health providers and over 330 host facilities, CheckUP leads a strong network committed to improving access to a wide range of healthcare services in urban, regional, rural, and remote communities, and highneed populations throughout Queensland, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Through Commonwealth-funded Outreach programs, State Government initiatives, and strategic partnerships, healthcare services are delivered to 173 communities across Queensland.
Providing continuity of care for communities
Long-standing Outreach services have enabled CheckUP Outreach service providers to build strong connections with communities, facilitating continuity of patient care, and well-established referral pathways. CheckUP Outreach service providers continue to forge enduring relationships through their longevity of service.
Continuity of care summary
■ 36% have delivered services for 10+ years
■ 33% have delivered services for under 5 years
■ 31% of providers have delivered services for 5-9 years
Health workforce turnover and retention challenges health equity and puts pressure on available funding. The Outreach model sustains long-term access to health services in rural and remote communities, ensuring underserved populations receive consistent, high-quality healthcare.
Outreach providers support Kerry, pictured above, and other residents in Charleville with health appointments.
An Outreach provider is pictured flying to support locals in remote communities.
What did the patients say?
Outreach patient feedback collected between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024 indicated that:
98% of respondents indicated they received the help they wanted
94% reported their health would improve following their appointments
90% of respondents indicated they were very satisfied
93% of respondents indicated they were likely to return to the clinic again
“[I am] grateful that I didn’t have to travel two hours.“
“[I received] fantastic care and the service that is available for our remote location by [my provider] and the team is vital to the health and well-being of our community. Thank you. “
“I’ve had no problems. I have been kept well informed.”
“All staff were very kind and helpful and talkative.”
“Provides remote towns with the help we need. “
Outreach patient feedback summary
■ 22% of respondents would need to travel between one and two hours if the service was not available locally
■ 24% would not be able to access a similar service
■ 54% would need to travel two hours or more
438 responses across 50 locations
42% (n=219) respondents identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
An aerial shot of Quilpie in Queensland.
Ed Mosby, Wakai Waian Healing, Outreach Provider and Peter, Charleville local are enjoying a chat.
A patient is pictured receiving support in a clinic.
Outreach
ALL Outreach health services
Medical Outreach Indigenous Chronic Disease Program Rural Outreach
CheckUP is the jurisdictional fundholder for the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care Outreach programs in Queensland. With the support of over 150 contracted health providers, we lead a strong, effective consortium that is committed to improving access to a wide range of healthcare services in urban, rural, and remote communities and high-need populations throughout Queensland, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATIENTS
visits were undertaken by our team of Outreach health providers occasions of service (appointments) were delivered through all MOICDP services in 2023-24 SERVICE DELIVERY 2023-24
The aim of the Medical Outreach Indigenous Chronic Disease Program (MOICDP) is to increase access to a range of health services, including expanded primary health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of chronic disease.
OCCASIONS OF SERVICE OCCASIONS OF SERVICE
83,176
173,062 occasions of service (appointments) were delivered through all Outreach health services in 2023-24 of all MOICDP services were accessed by Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people
104,062 of all Outreach health services were accessed by Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATIENTS
61,788
9,885 18,539 visits were undertaken by our team of Outreach health providers VISITS VISITS LOCATIONS
173 towns and communities were provided with Outreach health services
91 towns and communities were provided with MOICDP services SERVICE DELIVERY SERVICE DELIVERY 2023-24
The aim of the Rural Health (RHOF) is to ensure all Australians opportunity to access medical of the location in which supports Outreach health health issues identified and remote
56,932
occasions of service (appointments) were delivered through all RHOF services in 2023-24
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATIENTS
5,060
visits were undertaken by our team of Outreach health providers
Fred Hollows Foundation Eye Surgeries delivered under EESS
57 61 EAR SURGERIES EYE SURGERIES
38 FHF EYE SURGERIES
RHOF HEALTHY EARS VOS
Health Outreach Fund
Health Outreach Fund
Australians have the same medical services, regardless which they live. The RHOF health activities to address identified in regional, rural, remote locations.
Healthy Ears: Better Hearing, Better Listening
The aim of the Healthy Ears: Better Hearing Better Listening (Healthy Ears) program is to increase access to a range of ear and hearing health services, including expanded primary health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and youth (0-21 years) for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of ear and hearing health conditions.
Visiting Optometrists Scheme
The aim of the Visiting Optometrist Scheme (VOS) is to increase optometry services for people living in regional, rural, and remote locations (MM2 – MM7 locations are eligible).
16,138 OCCASIONS OF SERVICE OCCASIONS OF SERVICE OCCASIONS OF SERVICE
occasions of service (appointments) were delivered through all Healthy Ears services in 2023-24
17,747
of all RHOF services were accessed by Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATIENTS
14,156
of all Healthy Ears services were accessed by Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people
2,502
visits were undertaken by our team of Outreach health providers
111
towns and communities were provided with RHOF services
45
towns and communities were provided with Healthy Ears services
16,816
occasions of service (appointments) were delivered through all VOS services in 2023-24
ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PATIENTS
10,371
of all VOS services were accessed by Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people
1,092
visits were undertaken by our team of Outreach health providers
109
towns and communities were provided with VOS services
Eye and Ear Surgical Support program
The Eye and Ear Surgical Support (EESS) program, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care aims to reduce instances of avoidable blindness and deafness in First Nations populations through facilitating access to eye and/or ear surgery.
During the 2023-24 financial year, CheckUP provided support to 118 First Nations people including 57 children (ear surgery) who received life changing surgery under a unique culturally responsive model of delivery.
Children were also referred to the EESS pathway from Hearing Australia’s Hearing Assessment Program –Early Ears (HAPEE). The Surgical Support Manager works with the HAPEE team in Queensland to support children through the EESS program who require surgical treatment, who alternatively may be sitting on lengthy public waitlists.
CheckUP’s EESS program focused on breaking down barriers to surgery access, ensuring First Nations
Patient feedback
100% of eye and ear surgery patients and/ or carers who provided feedback to CheckUP from November 2021 to June 2024 indicated they were likely to recommend the surgery to family/ friends if they needed it.
95% felt completely welcome at the hospital
97% felt completely safe with health staff
97% felt completely respected by the health staff
94% felt the treatment was properly explained to them so they knew exactly what was happening
Eyes
“I should have done this years ago. Working on a computer will be better. I have had a fear of falling down steps cause I couldn’t see, so that will be good not to fear this. I’ve always needed to lean on people going to the car – won’t need to anymore.”
Ears
“Hopefully my baby won’t suffer anymore with earache, and I will feel more relieved as I’m always concerned of her hearing that she may not get the best learning because of her hearing and missing school because she’s too sick to go.”
Dr Morrissey, Morrissey ENT Surgeon, is shown with a patient during a consultation.
Coordination of Indigenous Eye Health
CheckUP’s Indigenous Eye Health Manager (IEHM) facilitates the coordination of culturally appropriate access to services across the full spectrum of eye care. CheckUP collaborates with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, Hospital and Health Services, Primary Health Networks and eye health care service providers to ensure integration of services from initial consultations to treatment, referral and continuity of care. Working across MOICDP, RHOF and the VOS, the IEHM ensured that coordination and access to quality eye care was available where needed to provide life-changing eye health services for patients focused on improving quality of life, function, health, and wellbeing.
Highlights - VOS school-based services
Responding to community requests, the IEHM worked with the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) optometry clinic to deliver school-based vision assessments for children on Palm Island, Thursday Island and Bamaga (Northern Peninsula Area). These services, all link in with the regular visiting optometrist and pathways to ophthalmology.
The QUT team consists of qualified optometrists and 4th year optometry students, who under supervision, get to experience and learn about the importance of delivering a culturally responsive outreach service and gain paediatric screening skills.
In January 2024, the QUT team delivered school screening services to three Thursday Island Schools during their first visit to Thursday Island. Prior to the visit the QUT team liaised with community Elder, Aunty Rhonda Shibasaki, School Guidance Officer, Andrew Phillips, and Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Services Child Health Nurse, Kathy Cook.
The Fred Hollows Foundation Partnership
• 128 children were seen at Tagai Secondary School, Primary School and Kindergarten
• 15 pairs of glasses were ordered, one child was referred to ophthalmology, and three children were referred to optometry for further testing.
A further 155 students received vision assessment at schools on Palm Island and Bamaga.
The Coordination of Indigenous Eye Health and VOS are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care and implemented with the support of a range of eye health professionals and health facilities across the state.
Through our partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation, CheckUP received funding to provide 38 First Nations patients from Cairns, Yarrabah, the Tablelands, Pormpuraaw, and Rockhampton with fully funded cataract surgery through established and supported pathways set up under the EESS model.
The partnership again supported two eye health coordinators at Gidgee Healing in Mount Isa and Lower Gulf communities and at the Palm Island Community Company who together with our Indigenous Eye Health Manager, assisted patients.
CheckUP is thankful for our partnerships with the Fred Hollows Foundation and our eye health providers and recognise their support has assisted CheckUPs ongoing efforts to provide timely and culturally responsive eye health services to support more people in community.
Lauren James, a QUT optometry student, conducted school-based vision screening.
Skin Cancer Early Detection service
demand for skin cancer early detection services in several rural and remote communities in five priority HHS regions across the State.
There were 62 clinics delivered in community health centres, local general practices, town halls, and other wellness facilities. These clinics were attended by 1,325 patients, with 389 patients (approximately 30%) receiving treatment pre-cancer and 263 patients (68% of those who received treatment) having histologically proven cancers detected.
A series of workshops for GPs were extremely popular with many of the attending GPs being International Medical Graduates. These full-day workshops covered the basics of dermoscopy, case discussions, and practical surgical skills, including biopsies, excisions, and suturing. These workshops aimed to increase the knowledge, skills, and confidence of GPs in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancers.
A workshop participant provided feedback and said, “An excellent program which has improved my confidence and skill as a rural GP.”
The Queensland Government funds the SCED program, which is one element of a three-year Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection initiative.
Key service delivery data
62 SCED clinics delivered 1,325 patients
389 patients received pre-cancer treatment
263 patients had histologically proven cancers detected
12 melanomas detected
3 providers (RFDS, Fairfield Central Medical Practice, and Skin Patrol)
95% agreed they had increased awareness and knowledge about how to conduct a skin self-check
90% agreed they had increased awareness and knowledge about the five sun protection behaviours.
Behaviours:
85% of patients indicated they were likely to commit to regular skin self-checks following visit.
Data collected from 105 patients, surveyed since February 2024.
GP Upskilling Workshops
5 Locations (Rockhampton, Mackay, Roma, Mount Isa and Townsville)
98 GPs attended
4 Other health professionals attended
2 Facilitators
(Dr Jeremy Hudson [Chair of Dermatology, RACGP] and Dr Alan Jones [Skin Patrol])
GP Upskilling Workshop feedback
Feedback received from 71 workshop attendees:
100% satisfaction with workshop
97% increased knowledge
92% increased confidence
99% likely to utilise new knowledge and skills in practice
Participants in a GP Upskilling Workshop in Rockhampton.
Evaluation Capacity Building
This past year has seen a significant expansion in CheckUP’s focus on measuring the quality and impact of its programs. This includes developing a number of new patient feedback surveys for our health programs, including Skin Cancer Early Detection and Rural Primary Health Services, alongside an update of the generic survey used to collect patient feedback across all of our other Outreach health services.
The short number of survey items selected for our patient feedback surveys allow for the broad range of service delivery types, frequency, and length of care seen across CheckUP’s health providers. The surveys combine generic patient experiences of care and a small number of single session outcome measures encompassing improved health literacy and patient activation to improve health related behaviours and lifestyles.
“My daughter escorted me and I felt safe and happy — well looked after.”
- Patient from Torres Strait Islands
“Thanks for this report.There is some positive feedback, and it was great to hear some great outcomes!”
- Surgery Coordinator, QLD Health
The CheckUP Patient Reported Experience Measure (PREM), developed in recent years to measure cultural safety in eye and ear surgery pathways, continued to be used by surgical teams in the Far North, with timely results returned to providers for immediate inclusion in quality improvement activities.
The results below track cultural safety and focus on hospital visit support, safety and respect, communication, and inclusion. CheckUP uses this information to improve patient care.
Legend
AHW: Aboriginal Health Worker
Sandy Gillies, CEO Western Queensland PHN, Aidan Hobbs, WQ PHN Senor Manager, Health Improvement and Innovation are pictured with Phillippa Hawke, CheckUP’s Lead Evaluator at AAHA Values Based Health Care Conference, Brisbane 2023.
Outreach service provider list
(includes all programs)
Alexzarndra Star
Alice O’Sullivan
Altitude Eyewear
Andrew Khoury Podiatry
Andrew Laming
Anna Houghton
Apunipima Cape York Health Council
Aurify.com.au
Awal Medical Party
Barry Sheehan Psychology
Better Movement Clinic
Bodyfix Physiotherapy
Brian Todd
Bundaberg Friendly Society Medical Institute
Burnett Speech Pathology
Burscough Family Trust
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service
Cairns Eye and Laser Centre Trust
CAM Barrett
Carbal Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service
Central West Hospital and Health Service
Cherbourg Regional Aboriginal and Islander Community
Controlled Health Services
Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service
Chit-Chat Speech Pathology Services
Complete Health Cairns
Cooper Smith Unit Trust
Coral Sea ENT
CW Hornsby Medical
DA Peters & LE Peters
Daniel Timperley
Darben Medical
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service
David Hogan
Deborah Lewry
Diabetes and Health Solutions
Diabetes On Track
Diabetes Queensland
DPB O’Brien Medical
Entirely Health
Fairfield Central Medical Practice Unit Trust
Far North Day Hospital
Far North Queensland Pain and Diabetes Management
Finn Podiatry
FNQ Physio
Francisca Hutton
George Street Unit Trust
Gidgee Healing
GN & DM Fitzpatrick
Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Company
Happier, Healthier - Nutrition & Dietetics
Health Management (Cairns)
Hear and Say
Heart of Australia
Herman Basson
Highlands Nutrition
Hinterland Physio Group
Hodgson Optical
Indigenous Wellbeing Centre
Institute for Urban Indigenous Health
Jaana Harris
Jaime Parnell
James Mann
Jaymee-Leigh Swift
Jennifer Doherty
Jennifer McWha
Joanne Stower
Julien Boulnois Medical
Kilkivan Community Health Hub
Kingaroy Chiropractic
Kunwarjit Sangla
Lady Bjelke-Petersen Community Hospital
Laura Abdalla
Leading Change Psychology
Leo Ryan
Lifestyle Therapies & Training Solutions
Lisa Grice
Lisa Penrose-Herbert
Louise Robinson
Louise Russell
Luke Reid
Macintyre Health Australasia
Mai Family Trust
CheckUP appreciates our Outreach health providers’ support in delivering much-needed health services in Queensland’s regional, rural, and remote communities in 2023-24. We acknowledge the commitment and dedication our Outreach health providers have shown in continuing to establish themselves as part of the communities they serve.
Mamu Health Service
Manjula Palee Kannangara
Mark Norrie
Mater Private Hospital Mackay
Matthew Broadhurst
Metro North Hospital and Health Service
Metro South Hospital and Health Service
Michael H & Lynette G Young
Moore Eyes
Morrissey ENT
Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation Primary Health Care Service
Nadia Hassan
North and West Remote Health
North West Hospital and Health Service
NQ Eye Specialists
Nutrihealth Dietitians
O’Brien Healthcare
Optimise Health and Wellness
Outback Diabetes Education
Outback Futures
Outside Optical
Paediatric Outreach Services Trust
Palm Island Community Company
Podiatry2Home
Porter Eye Care Trust
Queensland University of Technology
Rachel Stone Podiatry
Ramsay Surgical Centre Cairns
Rebecca Haak
RM Miller Medical
Robyn Norris
Rockhampton Eye Clinic
Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland Section)
Rural Health Management Services
Ruth Connors
S Kumar (Medical)
Seven Springs Health and Lifestyle
Skin Patrol
Smith Eye & Ear Family Trust
South West Hospital and Health Service
St George Medical Centre (QLD)
St Vincent’s Private Hospital Toowoomba
Stabilise Trust
Stalewski Medical
Steven Oreo
Steven Rodwell
Sugarmates
Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital
Synergy Health Centre
TalkHQ Speech Pathology
The Elsar Trust
The FJ Felfer Family Trust
The Gareth & Christine Edwards Family Trust
The North Coast Aboriginal Corporation for Community Health
The Rowan Family Trust
The Whole Child
Thomas Anthony Dover
Thriving Lives Co.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service
Towers Podiatry
Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service (TAIHS)
Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Townsville Hospital and Health Service (NQPPMS)
Townsville Sports Injury & Physiotherapy Clinic
Tracey BC Psychology
True Relationships & Reproductive Health
Vanil Varghese
Victoria Sheehan
Vital Health Qld
Vital Health South Burnett
Wakai Waian Healing
Warrier Health Solutions
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service
Women’s Health Circle
Wowan Dululu Community Volunteer Group
Wuchopperen Health Service
Ying Freda Chung
Yorklace
You Move Health & Rehab
Your Best Life Health and Disability Services
Workforce programs
The CheckUP Workforce team provides evidencebased insights to help the Government shape effective policy, while also working directly with businesses to develop workforce planning solutions.
This year, we focused on expanding micro-credentialing resources, building on 25 years of connections with community health and First Nations service providers across Queensland. We also celebrated our growing impact with the launch of NDIS Business Connect.
We engaged in over 300 industry activities, advising government on workforce planning and helping to secure funding for priority health qualifications and upskilling programs.
The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) funds the initiatives we deliver below:
• Health Industry Skills Advisor (ISA)
• Health Industry Workforce Advisor (IWA)
• First Nations Health and Social Assistance IWA
• Micro-credentialing Program – Going all OUT for Outreach
Health Industry Skills Advisor (ISA)
A strategic role in supporting health workforce quality and growth.
Health ISA highlights include:
• Recommending health qualifications for priority recognition, ensuring targeted financial subsidies for students pursuing health training or upskilling
• Driving prioritisation of Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs workforce and skilling
• Expanding school-based traineeships and future consideration of expanding qualifications across Hospital and Health Services
• Facilitating health industry input to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) review, ensuring that Queensland health professions are accurately represented.
We forged strong partnerships with:
• Queensland Mental Health Commission
• Queensland Alliance for Mental Health
• Hospital and Health Services.
The Workforce team are shown below.
CheckUP Industry Workforce Advisors (IWA)
IWA strives to address current and future workforce demands with First Nations and Health and Community Services industry partners.
The Industry Workforce Advisor program has continued to support healthcare and social assistance businesses across Queensland through the delivery of two IWA programs, the Health Industry Workforce Advisor and the First Nations Industry Workforce Advisor (Health and Social Assistance).
The program assists small and medium sized employers across the state to develop solutions to skills shortages and workforce issues.
The growth of the program has been particularly strong in regional Queensland, with 60% of clients coming from outside the Brisbane/Ipswich metropolitan areas.
IWA client percentages by DESBT Region 2023 - 24
Going All OUT for Outreach Micro-credentials
The project has successfully developed three microcredentials designed to upskill the Outreach workforce and support pathways into the health industry in rural and remote areas.
NDIS Business Connect
After successfully obtaining the Disability Sector Capacity and Capability Building program in 2023-24, we are excited to commence the work in the 2024-25 year. The project will be delivered under the banner of CheckUP Connect - NDIS Business Connect. Funded by the Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services (DCSSDS) as part of their state-wide disability peak body programs, the project runs until the end of June 2028.
Highlights include:
• Delivering a series of workforce planning masterclass workshops in: - Townsville - Rockhampton
- Sunshine Coast
• Indigenous Business Month breakfast held in collaboration with Everywhen Group.
CheckUP team member presenting at a Workforce event.
Health Gateway to Industry Schools project
The Health Gateway to Industry Schools project’s vision is to develop the future healthcare workforce through strong connections between high schools and the health industry.
The project’s primary mission is to inspire and motivate students to continue their education and training in healthcare, helping to address current and future workforce shortages in the sector.
Project highlights
Regional Health Gateway Schools in Queensland expanded, with 11 new schools from Far North Queensland, North Queensland, the North Coast, and Darling Downs/South-West Queensland regions joining the project.
Students visited numerous healthcare facilities including St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Ipswich Hospital, Gold Coast University Hospital, Buderim Private Hospital, Australian Dental Association of Queensland, and Logan Healthy Living.
CheckUP’s Health Gateway to Industry Schools project acknowledges the Department of Employment, Small Business, and Training (DESBT) for funding this initiative.
Snapshot
89 schools were part of the program
24 new schools joined the program
Healthcare facility visits provided students with invaluable insights, igniting their curiosity and inspiring aspirations in the healthcare sector.
The Health Gateway team participated in 101 career expos, health workshops, student talks, industry talks, and other career events.
The inaugural Health Gateway Awards ceremony took place, acknowledging the dedication and exceptional achievements of Health Gateway School students and their teachers.
ABOVE LEFT: Formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding signing with Park Ridge State High School.
BELOW LEFT: The CheckUP team provided information about the Health Gateway to Industry Schools project at the Cairns 22nd Youth and Careers Expo
RIGHT: Buderim Private Hospital Experience held in August 2023.
Inspiring Future Health Heroes: Success of the #GoHealth Careers Expo
The inaugural #GoHealth Careers Expo, funded by Queensland Government, Department of Health, proved an invaluable opportunity for engaging youth and supporting Queensland’s mission to grow its future workforce. The #GoHealth Careers Expo offered an interactive, immersive experience. Students explored a variety of career paths through simulated scenarios and hands-on activities, bringing the world of healthcare to life.
#GoHealth Careers Expo highlights:
1,900 students, teachers, and parents attended
64 Queensland secondary schools attended
56 health and community service organisations and educational institutions were represented on the day
The event showcased exciting healthcare opportunities.
Positive feedback strongly supports the continuation of future career expos focused on promoting diverse educational and career opportunities in the health and community services sector. CheckUP is dedicated to incorporating the recommendations from these evaluations to ensure even more effective planning and execution of future events.
The #GoHealth Careers Expo not only showcased the vast opportunities within the healthcare sector but also inspired a new generation of health heroes, laying the foundation for the future workforce in Queensland.
ABOVE: Students, school staff, exhibitors, and CheckUP staff at the #GoHealth Expo.
Youth Industry Partnerships for Education and Employment (YIPEE)
Youth Industry Partnerships for Education and Employment (YIPEE) Schools in Far North Queensland enjoyed numerous opportunities to engage with healthcare directly.
In June 2024, Queensland Health sponsored four schools from the region to attend the #GoHealth Careers Expo in Brisbane. Djarragun College, Heatley Secondary College, Kirwan State High School, and Bwgcolman Community School from Palm Island participated. The sponsorship covered flights, accommodation,
and meals, providing many students with their first experience traveling outside their community.
Additionally, ten students participated in work experience and facility tours at St. Vincent’s Aged Care in Townsville, while twelve students visited Capricorn Adventist and Bolton Clarke Aged Care in Yeppoon. As a result of their experiences, all students were offered employment opportunities. During this period, the YIPEE program offered many successful opportunities for Gateway Schools.
ABOVE: Graduation day at Heatley Secondary College for Year 12 students now employed at St Vincent’s Aged Care, Townsville.
RIGHT: Innisfail State School students regularly attended Career Exploration days and are pictured learning from Ambulance Officers Claine and Darren.
ABOVE: Bwgcolman Community School, Palm Island students, and staff with Townsville Hospital staff at a Career Exploration Day at Townsville Hospital.
BELOW: Students participated in a tour of the Royal Women’s Brisbane Hospital (RWBH) on the first day of their #GoHealth Careers Expo trip to Brisbane.
Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW)
Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW) is an annual awareness initiative that promotes individual and community mental health and wellbeing, boosts awareness of mental illness and celebrates the contribution of the mental health and community sectors.
In 2023, QMHW was held from 7–15 October (encompassing World Mental Health Day on 10 October) and the theme was “Awareness, Belonging, Connection”. CheckUP has coordinated QMHW since 2018 and has also administered the QMHW Community Events Grant Program since 2021. QMHW is funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Mental Health Commission. CheckUP seeks sector feedback and engagement to help guide the campaign, including lived experience consumer representation.
Record number of events
A record number of events were registered in 2023, with 529 events listed on the QMHW website, exceeding the target of 450. Events held outside of metropolitan areas made up 64.8% of these.
The number of registered QMHW events increased by 17.6% in 2023 and has more than doubled since CheckUP began coordinating the initiative.
QMHW Snapshot
The post-initiative survey received 162 responses, recording the follow results:
95% of respondents thought QMHW raised awareness of the importance of good mental health and wellbeing for all Queenslanders.
90% of respondents indicated QMHW contributed to acceptance and inclusion of those living with a mental illness.
94% of respondents thought QMHW helped communities better support good mental health and wellbeing.
Website metrics
103,978 page views
11,581 downloads
6,575 awareness ribbons sold
Grants
272 applications received (an increase from 170 in 2022)
157 grants awarded (an increase from 117 in 2022)
Engagement
9,014 newsletter subscribers
36.5% newsletter open rate (industry benchmark is 23.7%)
7.2% average click-through rate (industry benchmark is 3%)
8,881 Facebook followers
2,780 Instagram followers
7–15 October 2023
Feedback survey responses
Resources
“I use the downloadable posters and event posters every year. They are very much appreciated.”
“The posters and pamphlets were excellent. We were able to use them at our event, and they got people talking.”
“Indigenous artwork is lovely.”
“Our team loved the affirmation cards, which we utilised at our event.”
“The multilingual resources are great.”
Grants/grant-funded events
“The funding we received allowed us to bring the community together and celebrate. Artists that contributed to the event were particularly proud and excited to present their most meaningful works”
“Thank you for making the grants easy to apply for and easy to reconcile. We appreciate you!”
General
“A great week that is growing in participation and reducing stigma.”
“This is a fantastic initiative, raising awareness on such issues is vital.“
“The week is very important for supporting mental health and ensuring the community see its value for everyone.”
“I really liked seeing the Story Bridge light up in purple and green! What a great way to spread awareness!”
“It was a great opportunity to build awareness of mental health support available to students.”
The Story Bridge lit up purple and green for QMHW on 10 October to signify mental health.
Australian School of Meditation and Yoga’s ‘Kirtan for Peace’ QMHW event.
CheckUP staff with Minister Fentiman during the Queensland Mental Health Week event at Parliament House.
Access for All: Disability awareness for health providers
About Access for All (AfA)
Access for All: Disability Awareness for Health Providers is an online course that aims to improve disability awareness among health providers and increase understanding about the barriers people with disability experience when accessing healthcare.
Access for All enhances person-centred care by providing strategies and resources to assist health providers in reducing barriers and increasing the accessibility of their services for people with disability.
The project is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
The online training is part of CheckUP’s ongoing commitment to equipping Outreach Providers with additional skills and knowledge, which will help us achieve our purpose of creating healthier communities and reducing health inequities, specifically for people with disability. Since AfA launched in 2021, the program has contributed to raising awareness about accessibility and inclusion, established strong relationships and achieved stellar outcomes.
Snapshot
August
Trade display at National Disability Summit and participated in a panel discussion about disability healthcare
September
Trade display at Brisbane Care Expo
November
Trade display at Australian Society for Intellectual Disability Conference
December
Trade display at AMA Queensland Junior Doctors conference
Article published in ‘Partyline’ online magazine - ‘Improving healthcare access for people with disability’
March
Disability Awareness Training at James Cook University for general practice registrars
May
Delegate at Australian Disability Network IMPACT conference
June
As of June 30, 2024, 827 people completed the AfA course, exceeding the target of 750 completions
June
AfA funding extended for 12 more months
Synergy Health Centre Success
Synergy Health Centre, one of CheckUP’s Outreach providers, demonstrates an example of how CheckUP’s inter-program collaboration has been harnessed to contribute to excellence in service delivery. Synergy Health Centre has embraced CheckUP’s CPD opportunities and has encouraged all staff to complete AfA. This includes practice managers, administration and reception staff, as well as direct health service providers such as exercise physiologists, dietitians, physiotherapist, and diabetes educators. Consequently, Synergy Health Centre have strengthened the accessibility of their service, demonstrating their commitment to accessibility in all aspects of their health service provision.
As the name suggests, Synergy Health Centre embodies an approach to healthcare that recognises the interconnected influence of the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and environmental aspects of health and well-being. By completing AfA, their team was able to extend their holistic view of person-centred healthcare to people with disability.
“The Access for All training is outstanding… It’s made me reflect on the many challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing health services.”
- Practice Manager
“I could highly recommend this program as we could all improve on our disability awareness, particularly when we can get caught up in our busy clinics and perhaps, not be as accommodating as we could be.”
- Podiatrist
“Excellent course that encourages reflection on any biases or poor understanding that we have.”
- Nurse
“This course should be part of mandatory training for all staff.”
- Obstetrician/Gynaecologist
LEFT: Speakers are shown providing information about accessibility at various events.
The AfA team are shown above providing information about the course at an exhibition.
Our Organisational Members
Snapshot
35 member organisations
9 foundational members
5 networking events – 4 held in regional areas
Member networking events
Outreach Forum and Gala Dinner – Brisbane
8 September 2023
162 registrations
25th Anniversary event – Cairns
23 September 2023
37 registrations
25th Anniversary event – Toowoomba
9 November 2023
43 registrations
Networking event – Townsville
30 April 2024
48 registrations
Networking event – Brisbane
23 May 2024
58 registrations
Thank you to our members
We extend our gratitude to all the organisations that were part of the CheckUP community in 2023-24. A special thank you goes out to our foundational members* and to those who renewed their membership for the 2023-24 financial year.
Accoras*
AGPAL/QIP*
ATSICHS Mackay
BallyCara
Centre for Palliative Care Research and Education
Community Information Support Services (CISS)
Country to Coast Queensland PHN - Sunshine Coast
Health Network Ltd
Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN
Diabetes Queensland*
Epilepsy Queensland
Goondir Health Services
Health Consumers Queensland
Health Workforce Queensland
Hear and Say
Institute for Health Communities Australia*
Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH)
IROC, Metro North Health
Micah Projects
Northern Queensland PHN
North and West Remote Health
Propel Therapy
Queensland Aboriginal Islander Health Council (QAIHC)*
Queensland Alliance for Mental Health*
Queensland Department of Health*
Queensland Rural Medical Service
Richmond Fellowship Queensland
Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section)*
Rural Health Management Services
selectability
Toowoomba and Surat Basic Enterprise
Tonic Health Media
True Relationships & Reproductive Health*
Vision Australia
Western Queensland PHN
Wuchopperen Health Service
CheckUP Chair of the Board, Colin Duff is pictured speaking in Cairns at a networking event.
Queensland Primary Health Care Network (QPHCN) event series
ABOVE: QPHCN speakers, QPHCN sponsor, CheckUP leaders, and attendees gathered to share insights and connect at quarterly QPHCN events.
CheckUP CEO Ann Maree Liddy (far right) and networking event attendees standing by the Brisbane River, in front of the Story Bridge.
ABOVE: Highlights from various events with CheckUP members, providers, leaders, directors and staff.
CheckUP staff overview
CheckUP is proud to be recognised as an Inclusive Employer by the Diversity Council of Australia (DCA). CheckUP is committed to celebrating diversity and inclusion of people from different backgrounds, nationalities, age groups, education levels, and gender identities. CheckUP’s inclusive culture is demonstrated by our inclusion in DCA’s annual list of Inclusive Employers 2023 - 2024.
28% were born overseas
13% identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
98% How we feel believe CheckUP has an inclusive culture where diversity is valued and respected.
DCA utilises an Inclusive Employer Index, a yearly survey undertaken by participating organisations across Australia, to measure workplace diversity and inclusion. Participating organisations gain insights and measure how inclusive their work culture is compared to the Australian Workforce benchmark and DCA member benchmark regarding awareness, engagement, inclusive organisational climate, inclusive leadership, inclusive team, and exclusion. CheckUP has exceeded the National Index Benchmark in five out of these six areas that support diversity and inclusion.
Meet our team
10% are living with disability
17% We are inclusive are multilingual 21 different cultural backgrounds
Fast facts - CheckUP staff tenure
Staff with less than five years’ service
Staff with five to ten years’ service
Staff with more than 10 years’ service
27 5 8
5.5 Average years of service for employees
Diversity Council of Australia. (2023) 2023 – 2024 Inclusive Employer Index CheckUP.
5% identify as LGBTQI+
Working groups
CheckUP is proud to have several working groups implementing clear plans and actions to support providers, patients, and staff with guidance on reconciliation, child safety and well-being, health, team spirit, and inclusion.
The working group members are from a cross-section of CheckUP departments and in some cases, external stakeholders. They meet regularly to strive towards the groups’ objectives, with collaboration, trust, accountability, and diverse skills and experience underpinning action.
Child Safety
The newly established Child Safety Working Group monitors CheckUP’s safeguarding practices, upholding the safety and wellbeing of children across program delivery and organisational culture.
As part of the provider onboarding process, each provider is required to:
• Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the Human Rights Commission’s 11 Child Safe Principles.
• Highlight their organisational policies around child safeguarding (where applicable).
Belonging Group
Achievements
• The working group comprises team members from various teams at CheckUP, which was a key goal of the Terms of Reference.
• The working group drafted the Child Safety Action Plan 2024-2026 to continue and build on the intents of the Child Safety Action Plan 2020-23.
• Feedback from providers and facilities throughout 2022-23 requested more information on upholding children’s rights, safety, and well-being in health service delivery. This led to two Child Safeguarding webinars.
CheckUP’s commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace was confirmed in our participation in the Inclusive Employer Index Survey developed by the Diversity Council of Australia (DCA).
Diversity at CheckUP
The information highlighted was collected by DCA, which demonstrates CheckUP’s commitment to belonging and a high level of diversity and inclusion. CheckUP is proud to be recognised by the DCA as an Inclusive Employer.
Shine Wellness Program
Cultivating wellness and enhancing team unity
To foster a healthier and more connected workplace, CheckUP’s Shine Wellness Workgroup has led various activities promoting employee well-being and team cohesion.
Achievements
• Developing and distributing the Shine newsletter to employees. The newsletter showcases valuable health-related content, tips on physical and mental wellness, book and podcast recommendations, and nutritious recipes.
• Leading a variety of team-building exercises to enhance creativity, problem-solving, trust, listening skills, and teamwork.
• Organising the Shine Wellness Staff Fun Day at Merthyr Bowls Club. This was followed by a game of trivia, which used healthy competition to challenge teams and reinforce teamwork.
Quality
Mental Health First Aid
At CheckUP, the mental and emotional well-being of our staff is just as important as physical health. Following the delivery of Mental Health First Aid Training onsite in April 2023, CheckUP now has eight dedicated Mental Health First Aid Officers. These staff members have completed intensive training through Mental Health First Aid Australia, ensuring they are well-prepared to support staff in times of need.
These officers have the skills to provide initial support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem or crisis. Whether an individual is managing stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, staff can confidently approach any of these officers for support and guidance to additional resources if required.
CheckUP is proud of the newly established Quality Working Group, which has been formed to strengthen internal awareness and knowledge of the ISO 900:2015 Quality Management System requirements and the implementation of the LogiqcQMS.
Achievements
• Successful compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System requirements.
• Implementation of LogiqcQMS across CheckUP.
• Organisation-wide staff training modules on the LogiqcQMS active registers.
CheckUP Staff ready to roll at the Fun Day at Merthyr Bowls Club.
CheckUP trivia team winners at the Staff Fun Day at Merthyr Bowl
25 years of CheckUP
CheckUP marked 25 years of operation in 2023, and in September, we celebrated this milestone with an Outreach Forum and a 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner. Both events provided the opportunity to reflect on CheckUP’s past, acknowledge our current successes with our members and stakeholders, and look towards the future as we strive to create healthier communities, and reduce health inequities.
We extend our sincere thanks to the following Outreach providers who provided personal reflections and anecdotes that set the scene for an inspiring start to the Forum:
• Glen McIntyre, Lifestyle Therapies and Training Solutions (LTTS)
• Lisa Penrose, Optometrist
• Stephanie Bell, North and West Remote Health (NWRH)
160 Outreach Forum registrations
In addition, we thank and appreciate the following providers and stakeholders who also spoke passionately about their outreach experiences at CheckUP’s 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner:
• Dr Michael Clements, Fairfield Central Medical Practice
• Jean Benham, Vital Health
• Rhonda Shibasaki, CheckUP Aborginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group
of
Creating CommunitiesHealthierTogether
220 Gala Dinner registrations
ABOVE: Highlights from the Outreach Forum (left) and Gala Dinner event performers and guests (right).
Thanks to Leah Cummins who created the artwork for our 25 year anniversary
A connected community (above) by Leah Cummins
This artwork commemorates CheckUP’s 25th anniversary and acknowledges the collaborative connections that exist between CheckUP, our partners, healthcare providers, and Queensland’s diverse communities. Explaining the inspiration behind her art, Leah shared, “A connected community is a representation of the diverse and interconnected communities within the state of Queensland.” She added, “This artwork serves as a reminder that despite our differences and geographical separations, we are all part of a larger whole and can come together in unity.” www.bunyadesigns.com.au
