12 December 2025 - Top Stories

Australia’s health sector is experiencing a notable shift towards digital integration in 2025. The government’s recent launch of the National Allied Health Digital Uplift Plan aims to enhance infrastructure, streamline registration processes, and improve data sharing across the sector. Despite these efforts, a survey indicates many professionals are still adapting to essential tools like Provider Connect Australia and My Health Record. This ongoing digital transformation reflects a broader move to embed technology into everyday allied health practices.

Artificial intelligence continues to reshape health delivery in Australia. AI is now embedded in clinical documentation, imaging, scheduling, triage, and patient communication. Local startups are attracting investment in innovative areas such as voice restoration and brain–computer interfaces. Hospitals are trialling speech-to-text and translation tools, while primary care adopts ambient AI solutions to reduce administrative burdens. Vendors see AI as a standard layer in health systems, influencing future investment and competitive positioning.

The aged care sector is undergoing a significant digital overhaul following new legislation and government programs. The introduction of the Aged Care Act and Support at Home initiative has driven the deployment of systems like the Government Provider Management System and updated assessment tools. Over 1.5 million older Australians now benefit from digital systems supporting person-centred care. The sector’s digital maturity is increasing, creating opportunities for vendors and emphasising the importance of interoperability and ongoing investment.

Across the Tasman, New Zealand’s digital health strategy gained momentum with the launch of the Health Digital Investment Plan. The plan aims to develop a unified electronic medical record, remote monitoring, and a national radiology system, alongside stronger cybersecurity. While funding and implementation pose challenges, the sector’s value continues to grow at around 8 per cent annually. These strategic projects mark a shift from fragmented efforts to a more integrated, system-wide approach to digital health.

Despite these advancements, Australia’s health system faces ongoing challenges. Emergency department wait times are rising, with 90 per cent of visits now taking over 11 hours, up from less than eight hours in 2021. The system remains heavily focused on treating illness rather than prevention, despite high healthcare spending. Mental health, obesity, and GP shortages continue to strain resources. Regulators are also taking action, with AHPRA publicly naming practitioners under investigation to safeguard public safety. Meanwhile, workforce wellbeing remains a concern, as clinicians report burnout and emotional exhaustion.

• Launch of the National Allied Health Digital Uplift Plan to improve infrastructure and data sharing
• AI embedded in health systems, with local innovation attracting investment
• Digital overhaul in aged care driven by new legislation and systems deployment
• New Zealand’s strategic digital health projects gaining momentum
• Rising emergency wait times highlight system pressures
• Ongoing efforts to improve health data security and interoperability
• Workforce wellbeing initiatives to address clinician burnout