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GENERAL MANAGER PRIMARY CARE AND RURAL GENERALISM


ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE SOUTH EASTERN SECTION


CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK

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Executive Summary

  • Lead high‑impact primary care services shaping health outcomes across rural NSW.
  • Play a pivotal management role in a trusted, purpose‑driven national icon.
  • Drive innovation, growth and service excellence across a diverse, meaningful portfolio.


THE OPPORTUNITY

For more than 95 years, the Royal Flying Doctor Service has delivered life‑changing health services to people in rural, regional and remote Australia. RFDS South Eastern Section (RFDSSE) is now seeking an exceptional health leader to take on the role of General Manager, Primary Care and Rural Generalism—a pivotal position shaping the future of primary health care across some of the most diverse and underserved communities in NSW.

Working closely with the Clinical Director of Primary Care and Rural Generalism, this role provides both operational and strategic leadership across RFDSSE’s primary care, general practice and rural generalist service portfolio. The General Manager, Primary Care and Rural Generalism will help drive sustainable service delivery, support a highly skilled clinical workforce, and ensure safe, high‑quality care across multiple locations, including general practices, rural hospitals, community clinics and virtual care environments.

This is a rare opportunity to make a profound impact at scale—combining management responsibility, service innovation and community-focused healthcare within one of Australia’s most respected and trusted organisations.


THE ROLE

The General Manager, Primary Care and Rural Generalism plays a pivotal role leading RFDSSE’s primary care, general practice and rural generalist services across NSW. Working in close partnership with the Clinical Director of Primary Care and Rural Generalism, the position shapes strategic direction, strengthens service delivery, and ensures high‑quality, safe and accessible care for rural and remote communities.

This leadership role oversees performance, quality and risk across all primary care programs, using data and health intelligence to drive improvement and support evidence‑based decision‑making. A key focus is on building and sustaining a capable clinical workforce through strong planning, effective supervision and productive partnerships with training bodies and professional colleges and developing innovative solutions to challenges for rural and remote health access.

Financial stewardship is another core component of the role. The General Manager, Primary Care and Rural Generalism manages budgets, optimises MBS and funding opportunities, and identifies sustainable growth initiatives that enhance service viability. Alongside this, the role champions innovation, digital health and new models of care, while strengthening relationships with universities, PHNs, Local Health Districts and other partners to expand service reach and impact.


THE CANDIDATE

You will be a strategic, collaborative and forward‑thinking health manager with deep experience in primary health care—ideally in rural or remote settings. You bring a strong track record in leading multidisciplinary teams, driving organisational performance, delivering safe and high‑quality care, and managing complex health operations.

You will demonstrate:

  • 5–7+ years’ senior leadership experience in primary health or general practice environments.
  • Strong knowledge of rural generalist models, general practice operations, rural hospital services and the primary care funding landscape.
  • Proven capability in change management, service redesign and implementing innovative models of care.
  • High‑level skills in financial management, budgeting, and MBS optimisation.
  • Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and relationship‑building capabilities.
  • A commitment to RFDS values—Reliability, Care, Trust and Safety—and to improving health outcomes for remote communities.

Relevant postgraduate qualifications in health management, business, or a related field are essential.

HOW TO APPLY

The closing date for applications is Wednesday, 18 Febraury 2026.

For a confidential discussion about the position, please contact:

Sarah Buckler
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
HardyGroup

M. +61 (0)429 486 740

E. sbuckler@hardygroupintl.com


Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section


Australia's Biggest Waiting Room

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations globally, providing extensive primary health care and 24-hour emergency service to people who live, work, and travel across the 7.69 million square kilometers of Australia.

So much has changed over the last 97 years as we have adapted to meet the needs of outback Australians. But one thing that will never change is our commitment to always be there when we are needed.

Our South Eastern Section provides lifesaving outback emergency aeromedical retrievals and hospital transfers, as well as on the ground GP and nurse appointments, dental care, mental health care, alcohol and other drug counselling, vaccinations, chronic disease management and telehealth.



From our bases at Broken Hill and Dubbo our highly skilled doctors, nurses, dentists, mental health clinicians and other specialists fly or drive to remote communities to provide them a full suite of care. In many of these communities the RFDS is the only accessible provider of healthcare.

In and around NSW, our 350 dedicated staff helped provide over 68,000 occasions of care each year, including:

  • 7,200+ primary care patient appointments, provided at 830+ clinics
  • 3,700+ dental patient visits, provided at 660+ dental clinics
  • 3,700+ face-to-face mental health services and alcohol and other drugs program consultations, across 1,700 clinics

How RFDSSE help

Royal Flying Doctor Dubbo Base

The RFDS Dubbo Base is a major operational hub supporting emergency retrievals, inter‑hospital transfers and essential primary health, dental, mental health and outreach services across remote Western NSW. The base has grown significantly since opening in 1999, now employing more than 130 staff across clinical, aviation and support roles.

The Dubbo Base includes a modern aeromedical training centre, supporting ongoing professional development, simulation training and flight training for specialised aircraft. It also houses administrative, patient flow and telehealth units, providing a coordinated environment for staff to work efficiently.

Employees also benefit from being part of a purpose‑driven organisation with a long, respected history of innovation and commitment to remote communities. At Dubbo, the RFDS is deeply connected to the region, supported by strong community ties, modern facilities and ongoing investment in infrastructure.

The site also features the popular interactive RFDS Dubbo Visitor Experience center.

Broken Hill RFDS Base

Broken Hill Base is steeped in Australian history, and very much part of the community it serves. As well as health services, we have educational opportunities, a medical centre, a museum and shop. Operations began at the RFDS Broken Hill Base in May 1936. It was here, over sixty years ago, during the Queen's 1954 visit that we received the “Royal" prefix.

From Broken Hill we provide 24 hour emergency retrievals, covering a land mass of approximately 640,000 km². We operate a network of primary health clinics where patients can access community health nurses, dentists, mental health and allied health professionals. Our team offer training for medical and health science students in partnership with the University of Sydney, Department of Rural Health.

The Clive Bishop Medical Centre is located on the base and offers non-emergency treatment in the areas of family medicine — including immunisations and children's health checks plus men's and women's health — as well as management plans for chronic illness, wound care, skin checks and minor surgical procedures.

Live Flight Map of Our Planes

Have a look at the map showing the fleet of RFDS planes that are currently in the air, providing vital services across Australia. Clink here for live map.


Our Misson

We seek the best possible health outcomes for people in remote, rural and regional communities by providing better access to high quality healthcare.

Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section Values

  • Reliability
    • We stay accountable to each other by our consistent work and behaviour.
    • We deliver on our commitments to our communities.
  • Care
    • We treat everyone with care and respect.
    • We demonstrate care through our unwavering willingness to help all people.
  • Trust
    • We are transparent and honest with each other.
    • We show our communities we are trustworthy through our professionalism and outstanding conduct.
  • Safety
    • We take responsibility for the physical, mental, and emotional safety of each other.
    • We uphold a culture of safety awareness, safe work practices and reporting of potential harm.


Royal Flying Doctor Service Five-Year Strategy 2023 – 2028

Almost 2 million people call regional, rural and remote NSW home. That’s one in four people in NSW that live outside our urban centres.

Community spirit runs high in these diverse and resilient communities – many of which have been shaped by generations of people working in the agribusiness and manufacturing industries.

Our regions, the backbone of the state, generate one-fifth of the Gross State Product. However, at a population level, people living in these parts experience significantly poorer health outcomes, greater incidents of chronic disease and greater premature deaths when compared to their metropolitan counterparts.

Our services are a vital lifeline for the communities who rely on us. We take this responsibility seriously – providing lifesaving outback emergency aeromedical retrievals and hospital transfers, as well as providing over 85,000 occasions of care through on the ground GP and nurse appointments, dental care, mental healthcare, alcohol and other drug counselling, vaccinations, chronic disease management and telehealth.

Royal Flying Doctor Service Broader Values

Read Our Five-Year Strategy 2023 – 2028 | Royal Flying Doctor Service to learn more.

Role Specification


LIVING AND WORKING IN REGIONAL NEW SOUTH WALES

Western NSW offers a refreshing change—for you and your family. You’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace of living, vibrant and welcoming communities, and the space to truly unwind. Become part of diverse, tight‑knit townships, make meaningful connections, and experience a lifestyle where people genuinely look out for each other.

Outside of work, you can immerse yourself in a wide range of sporting, cultural and outdoor activities. From local clubs and weekend sports to hiking, river adventures and community events, there’s always something to enjoy.

Most importantly, living in Western NSW means achieving the work‑life balance you’ve been craving—more time for family, wellbeing and the things that matter most.


What’s It Like Living in Dubbo, New South Wales?

Set in the heart of New South Wales, Dubbo offers the perfect balance between the buzz of a regional city and the peace of wide‑open country spaces. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant urban living or the chance to slow down and breathe, Dubbo gives you the freedom to choose the lifestyle that suits you best.

The Dubbo Region is growing, energetic and full of opportunity. With affordable housing, excellent schools, modern services and virtually no commute, it delivers a level of liveability that’s hard to beat. It’s a place where your time becomes your own—where quality of life truly comes first.

Here, you’ll find all the conveniences you’d expect from a major centre, but with room to move and space to grow. Build your career, pursue new study goals or simply enjoy more time with the people who matter most.

Known fondly as the city of smiles, Dubbo has a warm, welcoming spirit and a bright future. Nearby Wellington adds its own charm, with stunning natural landscapes, rich heritage and a classic country feel. Across the region, smaller villages offer peaceful escapes, rolling views and unforgettable sunsets—perfect for anyone seeking connection, space and a slower, more grounded way of life.

Dubbo is a quick 1-hour flight from Sydney and 2 hours from Melbourne direct.

Royal Flying Doctor Dubbo Base

What Can You do in Western NSW?

Nature lovers are spoiled for choice. Spectacular national parks, waterways, dams, and beautifully maintained green spaces are right on your doorstep. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the scenery, there’s always something to explore. Outdoor adventure is part of the lifestyle, with opportunities for bushwalking, pony club, camp drafting, water skiing, camping and more.

Sports and fitness enthusiasts will find countless clubs and activities to join, making it easy to stay healthy, active and connected. And for those who enjoy arts, food and culture, the region hosts unique festivals, live theatre, galleries and events, from wine and food celebrations to iconic festivals like the Parkes Elvis Festival.

Most of all, Western NSW is known for its warm, friendly people. It’s a place where neighbours know each other, where community groups welcome new faces, and where you can build genuine connections. For many, it’s the perfect blend of lifestyle, culture and community, an opportunity to live well, live fully and live with purpose.


The Broken Hill Base

The Broken Hill Base serves an area of about 640,000 sq km of Australian outback. You’ll find our Royal Flying Doctor Outback Heritage Experience, Broken Hill on site at the RFDS Broken Hill Base. Your visit brings you to the heart of all we do.

Our committed teams provide an around-the-clock ‘mantle of safety’ to rural communities. The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) provides 24/7 aeromedical emergency retrieval and patient transfers. Our doctors, nurses, engineers and pilots work from the Broken Hill Base with three Beechcraft King aircrafts a day.

Our Primary health services including dental and mental health services incorporate the following:

  • General practice
  • Women, child and family health care
  • Drug and alcohol counselling
  • Specialist clinics with medical consultants.

The RFDS also provides non-emergency patient transfers from Broken Hill.


What’s It Like Living in Broken Hill, New South Wales?

Broken Hill is a historic mining town in far‑west New South Wales known for its striking desert landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and deep industrial heritage. As one of Australia’s oldest mining communities, it blends grand 19th‑century architecture with a rugged outback backdrop. The city is home to renowned galleries, including the Pro Hart Gallery and the Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery, and has become a popular filming location for iconic movies. With its dramatic sunsets, friendly community, and rich cultural history, Broken Hill stands as a unique outback destination that feels both remote and wonderfully full of character.

Broken Hill offers an inviting blend of affordability, character and outback charm, making it an appealing place for people looking to reset their lifestyle without compromising on essential services. With median house prices around $220,000, it stands as one of the most affordable regional centres in New South Wales, giving residents the chance to enjoy financial breathing room and opportunities to build security or invest in property. The town is known for its safe, friendly and laid‑back atmosphere, where locals value community, connection and a slower pace of living—qualities often lost in larger cities.

Beyond affordability, Broken Hill surprises newcomers with its strong community amenities, including good medical facilities, shopping options and essential services that support a comfortable lifestyle. Its rich artistic heritage adds colour and character to everyday life: from numerous galleries to iconic outback-inspired works, the city’s creative energy is deeply woven into its identity. Surrounded by vast desert landscapes, dramatic sunsets and well‑known attractions such as the Living Desert Sculptures, Broken Hill offers a sense of space and tranquillity that is hard to match.



What’s It Like Living in Orange, New South Wales?

Orange is a year‑round destination, known for its heritage charm, cool‑climate wines, renowned restaurants, boutique shopping and stunning scenery. With rich soils, beautiful gardens and vibrant markets, it captures the best of Country NSW in one welcoming community.

Life in Orange gives families the chance to slow down, reconnect and enjoy time together without long commutes, high living costs or big‑city pressures. You can work hard here and still end each day around the table with local produce and good company.

Housing is a major drawcard, offering everything from classic bungalows to modern homes and rural properties, often at a fraction of Sydney prices.

Orange also makes it easy to stay active and engaged, with excellent education options, plenty of parks, cycling routes, sports clubs and community events. And for food and wine lovers, it’s one of Australia’s standout wine regions, celebrated for award‑winning drops and a thriving gourmet dining scene.




ABOUT US


HardyGroup’s (HG) mission is simple

Find and Grow Great Leaders - and we have been doing exactly that for more than 30 years in public and private health, primary, community and aged care as well as the broader public service.

Our synergistic business model of Executive Search and Recruitment integrated with Executive Leadership and Learning is our unique point of difference.

It ensures our clients can count on us for the lifecycle of their organisations leadership journey and why we are regarded as the leading trans-Tasman partner agency by clients.

When engaging HG you can be confident in a deeply personalised experience and service as nothing matters more to us than relationships and results.