The NSW Government has fulfilled a key elecction promise, today announcing the creation of a new Special Commission of Inquiry tasked with conducting a review of healthcare funding in NSW.

The Inquiry will also be tasked with identifying opportunities to deliver higher quality, more timely, and more accessible patient-centred care.

On the recommendation of Premier Chris Minns, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, has issued Letters Patent that establish a Special Commission of Inquiry into healthcare funding to conduct a holistic review of the funding of health services in NSW.

Mr Richard Beasley SC has been appointed as Commissioner of the Inquiry and will deliver a final report to the Governor on or before 24 August 2024.

Mr Beasley is a highly regarded senior barrister and has previously worked as Senior Counsel Assisting the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Ruby Princess as well as being appointed as the Commissioner for two Local Government Inquiries.

Health expenditure in NSW takes up more than any other part of the NSW Budget.

This will be the first time that a detailed independent analysis of that expenditure and its correlation to health outcomes is examined.

As part of the comprehensive review, the Inquiry will examine:

• the existing governance and accountability structure of NSW Health;
• the way NSW Health funds health services delivered in public hospitals and community settings; and
• strategies available to address escalating costs, limit wastage and identify areas of improvement in financial management.

While the Inquiry conducts its work the NSW Government will continue to focus on improving the services communities need and giving healthcare workers the recognition and support they deserve.

This announcement builds on the Government's commitment, in the lead up to the September budget, to prioritise budget repair to rebuild essential services in New South Wales.

Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park said:

"Our government is committed to making the right policy and investment decisions. To do that, we need to understand the complex issues and challenges faced by essential services and workers.

"This inquiry is about taking a once in a generation look at how our health system is funded so we can ensure patients and our essential healthcare workers are getting the support they need.

"The purpose of the Inquiry is to help us determine what steps we need to take to move forward and how we can continue to deliver the essential health services our community deserves.

"I want to acknowledge the 178 000 staff who work tirelessly each and every day to provide the best care possible to their patients and consumers."

Refer to Special Commission of Inquiry into healthcare funding for the terms of reference for the Taskforce.