The Australian federal government has made a $370.2 million commitment to develop 28 new General Practitioner (GP) Super Clinics, which offer a multidisciplinary, team-based approach to providing primary and specialized care in one central location. In 2007, the government pledged $275 million over five years to establish 36 GP Super Clinics in communities across the country. The new funding will also support upgrades to approximately 425 general practices, primary care and community health services, and Aboriginal Medical Services.
Super Clinics—which offer after-hours care—are a main focus of the Australian government's efforts to improve services for underserved populations and make it easier for patients to see a health professional when needed. To date, 26 of the first 36 GP Super Clinics are open or under construction. Proponents believe Super Clinics will free up emergency departments, attract medical students to the GP profession, and increase access to a wide range of care.
Sources:
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/FCDE8D507FDE9802CA2577EE0024BD11/$File/nr197.pdf
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ministers/publishing.nsf/Content/mr-yr10-nr-nr011.htm?OpenDocument&yr=2010&mth=01