Our shareholders

Healthdirect Australia was established in 2006 and is jointly funded by the Australian Government and the governments of the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia.

We are a public company limited by shares. Our shareholders are delegated representatives of the Health Ministers of each of the jurisdictions above. We have a responsibility, and are directly accountable to the federal, state and territory governments as shareholders and as customers.

Shareholders fund Healthdirect Australia to deliver health and related services on their behalf, by developing capability, contracting service providers, and managing ongoing operations.

Our funding agreement with shareholders outlines the intended outcomes for Healthdirect Australia, defined as:

• Australians have better access and equity of access to the most appropriate health information and advice.
• Australians have greater confidence and capacity to manage their own health.
• The health status of Australians is improved.
• Demand for health services is managed more efficiently and effectively.

The Shareholder Committee represents the interests of the federal, state and territory governments as shareholders. The Committee is responsible for:

• Appointing directors to the Board.
• Liaising with the Board and CEO to advance policy and priority issues.
• Approving the company's Strategic Plan.
• Providing advice on the annual Corporate Plan.
• Assessing business cases to improve existing services and develop new jointly funded services.
• Reviewing the company's performance.

The Shareholder Committee meets with Healthdirect Australia representatives regularly.