How we developed the plan

The plan is the product of extensive research and consultation, including with partners, experts, NSW Health staff and consumers from March 2024 to May 2025. NSW Health extends its appreciation to every person who contributed to developing this plan. We are especially grateful to those who shared their experiences and needs with us. Thank you all for your commitment to high quality, safe, inclusive and responsive healthcare for people of all genders in NSW.   

Advisory Group

Provide guidance and direction to develop the plan.

12 members from different parts of the NSW Health system, including:

  • priority groups
  • metropolitan and regional areas
  • health policy, people and culture, human experience and community engagement teams.

Staff consultation

Hear from staff on improving gender equality within the NSW health system.

Two rounds of consultation had 503 engagements with staff. Feedback was provided online via surveys, ​an information session, 5 feedback sessions, and 3 drop‑in sessions.

Self-assessments

Provide insight into gender related capability.

Identify relevant programs and policies.

All NSW Health organisations and Ministry of Health branches completed an online check‑in form. In addition, Ministry of Health branches undertook a policy audit.

Expert input

Consult with national and international gender equality experts.

Included experts from Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Victoria and Queensland.

Literature review

Identify gender disparities in health and strategies to address them.

A review was undertaken by the Critical Intelligence Unit at the Agency for Clinical Innovation.

Consumer engagement

Learn from consumers how the plan will impact them.

Through 2 rounds of engagement, we received input from 44 women, men and gender diverse people.

Feedback was invited via 3 focus groups, an online survey and written responses.

Executive engagement

Deliver a system-wide strategic view.

All Executive Directors at the Ministry of Health, Chief Executives and Directors of People and Culture were consulted.

Action leads engagement

Refine policy approaches.

All areas nominated as an action lead were engaged. This helped refine actions to support high impact.

Workforce data

Understand gender disparities in our workforce.

People Matt​er Employee Surveys and internal workforce data was analysed.

 

Current as at: Tuesday 8 July 2025
Contact page owner: Strategic Reform and Planning