Inquiry into ACT health system data, demand and processes
Summary
In August 2025, the ACT Government set up an independent inquiry into ACT health system data, demand and processes. The Minister for Health and Mental Health appointed Mr Michael Walsh PSM as the chair of the inquiry.
The inquiry, guided by the terms of reference, examined:
- health data availability
- the new Digital Health Record (DHR)
- planned care reforms
- health system demand drivers and sustainability
- workforce challenges, recruitment, retention, and morale
- governance and systems.
The inquiry has now concluded. The chair wishes to thank everyone who has participated in the inquiry or made a submission. The contributions have informed the recommendations in the final report.
Consultation and submissions
The chair consulted and engaged with ACT health system stakeholders, including:
- clinicians and staff
- consumers
- key partners
- industrial representatives.
The inquiry also accepted written submissions.
The work of the inquiry, including consultation and written submissions, are subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2016 (FOI Act).
Any requests for information relating to the inquiry under the FOI Act will be processed by the Health and Community Services Directorate. They are separate to the inquiry processes.
In accordance with the FOI Act, the appointed information officer is the final decision maker on the application of the FOI Act and the information that is released.
Read Access ACT Government information for more information about access and release of ACT Government information.
Report
The inquiry chair provided the Final Report to the Minister for Health and Mental Health in May 2026.
The Report was tabled in the ACT Legislative Assembly, and made public, on 10 June 2026.
The Final Report provided the ACT Government with 49 recommendations.
A Government Response to the Final Report will be tabled in the Assembly, and made public, by the end of 2026.