The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (Eye and Ear) and Goulburn Valley (GV) Health have joined forces to deliver cochlear implant surgery in regional Victoria—a first for the state’s public health system. This pioneering partnership means patients in the Goulburn Valley and beyond no longer need to travel to Melbourne for life-changing hearing care, marking a significant step forward in health equity for regional communities.
Under the new model, Eye and Ear credentialled surgeons travel to Shepparton to perform surgeries at GV Health, while local audiologists provide pre- and post-operative care through the Victorian Cochlear Implant Program. This ensures patients receive consistent, multidisciplinary support, wherever they live.
The impact is best illustrated by Sue, a mother of six who struggled with hearing loss for nearly 30 years. After receiving her cochlear implant at GV Health—the first such surgery outside metropolitan Melbourne—Sue describes the experience as “the best decision ever for me and also my family.” Her journey from isolation to reconnection with loved ones is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in healthcare.
With surgeries now scheduled monthly and demand expected to grow, this partnership is transforming lives and setting a new standard for accessible, patient-centred care across Victoria.
Read more from the Victorian Premier, The Honourable Jacinta Allan MP, here: Bringing Lifechanging Hearing Care to Regional Victoria | Premier
