Chapter 6: Next steps

This project highlighted the effectiveness of participatory, place-based planning in identifying and addressing health and service needs in rural and remote communities. By using a co-design approach, it empowered a broad range of community members and stakeholders to collaboratively define health priorities and implement practical solutions. Crucially, some of the solutions identified involved community-led actions in improving health and access to health services, further demonstrating the value of community participation as fundamental in health planning. The findings underscore the value of investing in local leadership, building trust through embedded roles such as local connectors, and fostering inclusive, ongoing engagement to support meaningful change.

This eBook has outlined the approach taken by the team through the Integrating Health Care Planning for Health and Prosperity in Northern Queensland Project and provided examples and templates that can be used by parties interested in replicating a similar process. Those interested in conducting place-based health planning are able to work through this guide step-by-step or tap into the sections for information and guidance as required.