Expressions of interest open for promised TassieDoc bulk-billed GP clinics

Four new bulk-billing medical centres are up for grabs in Tasmania, as the state government races to deliver on its election promise of affordable healthcare.

Health Minister Bridget Archer and Clinical Director of Primary Care North Dr Brooke Sheldon. Picture: Supplied

Expressions of interest are now open for private operators to run four of the five “TassieDoc” bulk‑billed GP clinics promised by the Liberals, with a fifth clinic in the Huon Valley still progressing.

During the election campaign, Labor committed to building new, free and bulk‑billed GP clinics, with Labor proposing 10 and the Liberals matching the promise with 5 clinics.

Health Minister Bridget Archer said on Saturday the EOI process was now live for four clinics, each aiming to generate up to 20,000 additional bulk‑billing presentations annually. The EOI is advertised on the Tasmanian Government Tenders website and remains open until January 21, 2026.

“While GPs are the responsibility of the Federal Government, we are once again stepping in to ensure Tasmanians have greater access to affordable care, when and where they need it,” Ms Archer said.

Clinical Director of Primary Care North Dr Brooke Sheldon said primary care GPs helped keep people out of hospital and welcomed the funding to relieve pressure across the health system.

Several providers had already partnered with Labor to deliver TassieDoc clinics during the campaign.

When asked why this wasn’t the case for the Liberals’ clinics, Ms Archer said the government would proceed in a “measured” and “sustainable” way.

An EOI is also open for community pharmacies to apply for grant funding to extend opening hours, including evenings and weekends, to improve access to services.

Ms Archer said the Government and the Minister for the Macquarie Point Precinct, Eric Abetz, will work closely with stakeholders, including independent Member for Elwick Bec Thomas, who remains undecided ahead of the upper house debate on 3 December. She said Mr Abetz had been “proactive” in his engagement with stakeholders.