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Congratulations Sean Duffy – CEO Reappointment

Congratulations Sean Duffy – CEO Reappointment

Sean Duffy, Chief Executive Officer, Ballarat Community Health and Dr Jessie Harman AM, Board Chair, Ballarat Community Health

I am delighted to share that Sean Duffy has been offered, and accepted, an extension to his appointment as Chief Executive Officer. Sean’s appointment has been renewed through to December 2031.

This reappointment reflects the Board’s confidence in the work and direction of this organisation into the future. We are grateful for Sean’s leadership, and we take this opportunity to extend to each of you our sincere appreciation for your valued contribution.

The Board feels a strong connection to the purpose and values of BCH. This includes a sense of optimism about the organisation’s ability to deliver the BCH Strategic Plan and, with your support, our ability to fulfil our commitments to the communities we serve.

Strength and continuity of leadership is particularly important during seasons of growth and change. So much has been achieved, and we look forward to all that is still to come.

I invite you to join the Board in congratulating Sean on his reappointment. This is an important step which will continue to drive BCH’s strategy and impact in the coming years.

Thank you again for your commitment to BCH, improving health and wellbeing outcomes for clients and the community.

Jessie Harman
Board Chair

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Quality and Accreditation

Quality and Accreditation

What Quality Services Mean to Our Community

For us, quality services mean care that is safe, respectful and easy to use. They put people first.

We listen to your voice and needs. We respect culture, identity and life experience. We work with you on what matters to you.

Quality also means we keep learning. We use feedback to improve our services. We follow clear standards so you can trust the care you receive.

To make sure we deliver care you can trust, we maintain accreditation with recognised Australian and Victorian quality and safety standards, explained below. You can also read more about our specific Statements of Commitment here.

How you have helped us improve

We highly value all feedback, as this provides us a great opportunity to keep improving our services, and to make sure that we are meeting the needs of the people using our services.

Below are some actions we have achieved, which is based on feedback you have given us.

  • Developed simple client information sheets accessible on our website
  • Updated our Client Welcome booklet, with information our clients wanted to know
  • Created more gym/exercise access times
  • Improved our phone systems to reduce wait time and improve access
  • Provided more inclusive and inviting waiting areas

How can you get involved?

  • Provide feedback on your experience via our website or paper feedback forms at each site
  • Complete BCH Experience Surveys when they are promoted or sent to you
  • Participate in accreditation activities, such as interviews with assessors (details will be available during accreditation visit times)

The Standards That Guide Our Care

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Be a part of our 2026 Pet Pride Exhibition

We invite you to be a part of our 2026 Pet Pride Exhibition

headspace Ballarat

In celebration of Pride Month, Ballarat Community Health and the City of Ballarat invite YOU to be a part of our Pet Pride Exhibition!

We’re looking for fun, colourful, and heartwarming photos that showcase your pets in their most fabulous Pride-inspired moments!

Whether your pet is donning a rainbow collar, sporting a Pride flag, or simply radiating love and joy, we want to see them shine in all their glory! This is your chance to share the bond you share with your pet and celebrate the diversity of love in all its forms.

So how can your pets be a part of this amazing exhibition? Simply upload a picture of your pet to the Ballarat Community Health Website by no later than May 17, 2026.

One entry per person. if you have more than one pet, send us a photo featuring your pet family.

We will contact all entrants with Exhibition details. We invite everyone to come and be part of this celebration of pride, love, and acceptance—where everyone, and every pet, is welcome!

    How to participate

    Snap a pic of your pet in their best Pride gear or in a moment of pride-filled happiness.

    Submit your photo via the form below. We will collect some information from you just in case we need to contact in relation to the photo.

    All submissions will be featured in the Pet Pride Exhibition, which will be held to honour and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community! Submissions are free. One submission per person.

    Show us how your pet spreads love and joy. Let’s make this Pet Pride celebration paws-itively unforgettable

        Send your photo

        Submissions have now closed.

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        We’re Looking for an Experienced VR GP to join our Howitt Street Practice

        We’re looking for an experienced VR GP to join our Howitt Street Practice

        Ready for a community-focused role that supports your growth and work-life balance? Ballarat Community Health is seeking a VR GP (3+ years experience) to join our Howitt Street team and help support the growth of our GP registrar program.

        This is a unique opportunity to step into an established caseload, enjoy above-average remuneration for supervision, and work alongside a dedicated team in a truly supportive environment.

        With no on-call or weekend work, you’ll have the work–life balance you need while still making a meaningful impact in our community.

        We’re also offering

        • Professional development support
        • Strong wrap-around services and referral pathways
        • A sign-on bonus of up to $5,000 – to be negotiated with the right candidate
        • A referral bonus of up to $5,000 for successful recommendations

        If this sounds like the right next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you! Call Danni/Danielle Walker for a confidential discussion on 0498619669.

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        Christmas Support in Ballarat 2025 – Food Relief & Other Resources

        Christmas Support in Ballarat – Food Relief & Other Resources

        Ballarat Community Health Pharmacotherapy Team

        Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration—but for some, it can bring stress, loneliness, or financial pressure. If this season feels difficult, remember: you’re not alone. Support is available.

        Ballarat food relief services – emergency groceries and essentials
        Christmas hampers and gift cards – toys, vouchers, and festive support
        Community assistance programs – practical help for families and individuals

        Christmas Relief information

        pdf 2025 Festive Season Information November 2025 Edition

        In Community Programs 2114 downloads

        2025 Festive Season Information November 2025 Edition

        2025 Festive Season Information, hampers food relief and other wellbeing resources for the festive season.  Compiled by the Innovative Health Services for Homeless Youth (IHSHY), Ballarat Community Health, November 2025.

        Visit Food Access for emergency support available in the Ballarat area throughout the year.

        This season, let’s look out for each other. With patience and kindness, an open ear, or a small gesture can make a big difference.

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        2024/2025 Annual Report and Annual General Meeting

        Reflecting on a Year of Impact

        Eat Well Feel Good Lunch

        Ballarat Community Health held its 2025 Annual General Meeting, Wednesday November 5th. A time to reflect on achievements and express gratitude for the incredible work happening across our organisation.

        The meeting began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country from Shannen Mennen of the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, setting a respectful and inclusive tone for the evening.

        Board Chair Dr Jessie Harman AM shared a year in review, highlighting the milestones and successes that shaped the past year before the Annual Report was formally adopted. Our financial position was then presented by Shelley Wood and Danielle Walker, providing transparency and confidence in BCH’s ongoing stability.

        A special moment of the evening was the farewell to outgoing Board members Robert Hook AM and Mat Muldoon, who have each dedicated close to a decade of service. Their leadership and commitment to community health were warmly acknowledged and deeply appreciated.

        We welcomed newly elected Board members Pauline Buckland and Sari Baird, whose expertise and passion will help guide BCH’s future with a strong community focus.

        The 2024–25 Annual Report celebrates the impact of our work and the dedication of our staff in improving client outcomes and access to care every day.

        • Dr Jesse Harman AM, Board Chair
        • Sean Duffy, Chief Executive Officer
        • Robert Hook AM, outgoing Board Member
        • Mathew Muldoon, outgoing Board Member
        • A/Prof David Pierce Board Member
        • Danielle Walker, Chief Operating Officer

        BCH Annual Report

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