WARATAH – free allied health services

Living with a chronic health condition can make it harder to stay on top of your health and wellbeing. The WARATAH program helps eligible people access free allied health services, including diabetes education, dietetics, podiatry and physiotherapy, in selected communities across the Murrumbidgee.

The program is designed for people who may need extra support to access healthcare and improve their health outcomes.

Talk to your GP to find out if WARATAH is right for you.

What is WARATAH?

WARATAH stands for Wellness and Resilience Achieved Through Allied Health.

The program helps eligible people access free allied health services closer to home. It aims to improve health and wellbeing by providing support for people living with chronic health conditions and those who may be at greater risk of poorer health outcomes.

Services are delivered by qualified allied health professionals who work alongside your GP to support your health goals.

How can WARATAH help?

Depending on your needs, support may include:

• Diabetes education
• Nutrition advice and support from a dietitian
• Podiatry and foot care
• Physiotherapy
• Support to better manage a chronic health condition
• Help to improve your overall health and wellbeing

Some people may also be eligible for support from a WARATAH Health Linker, who can help connect them with health and community services.

Who is WARATAH for?

WARATAH supports eligible people living in parts of the Murrumbidgee region who may need extra support to access healthcare.

This may include:

• First Nations people
• Children, young people and families
• Older people aged 65 years and over
• Refugees
• People experiencing financial hardship

To be eligible, you must also have one or more of the following health conditions:

• Diabetes
• Chronic pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Frailty
• Respiratory disease
• Obesity or risk of obesity
• Physical inactivity

Your GP can discuss your eligibility and whether the program is suitable for your needs.

Where is WARATAH available?

WARATAH services are available in selected communities across the Riverina, Border and Western/Wagga Wagga regions.

Available services and locations vary depending on the allied health discipline.

Contact us or speak with your GP to find out whether WARATAH is available in your area. Note, services listed in the locations below are subject to availability.

What can I expect?

If your GP refers you to WARATAH, Marathon Health will connect you with the most appropriate allied health service for your needs.

Your allied health professional will work with you to understand your goals, provide practical support and develop a plan to help improve your health and wellbeing.

Your GP will receive updates about your progress throughout the program so your care remains coordinated.

Do I need a GP referral?

Yes. Referrals to WARATAH must come from your GP.

Your GP will discuss your health needs, review your eligibility and complete a referral if the program is suitable for you.

How many appointments can I receive?

You can access up to six sessions with each allied health professional you are referred to through the program.

If you need additional support, your GP will discuss the most appropriate next steps with you.

What is a WARATAH Health Linker?

Sometimes managing your health involves more than appointments.

A WARATAH Health Linker provides extra support for people with complex health or social needs for up to six months while they are receiving care from a WARATAH allied health provider. They work alongside your GP and allied health team to help you access services, stay connected to care, and achieve your health goals.

Anyone eligible for the WARATAH program may also be eligible for Health Linker support.

What makes us different?

This service is supported by funding through the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network as part of the Australian Government’s PHN program.