REGIONAL communities across New South Wales are set to benefit from new Key Health Worker Accommodation which hopes to attract more paramedics to the bush.

The $200million program supports more than 20 projects across rural, regional and remote NSW.

Funding will secure approximately 120 dwellings across regional NSW, which includes the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units.

It is estimated the four-year program will support the recruitment and retention of more than 500 health workers and their families by providing a range of accommodation options.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, said key health workers are the backbone of our regional, rural and remote communities.

“Strengthening our regional ambulance workforce is a key priority for our government and this $10 million investment in accommodation will support attraction of paramedics to the regions,” Mr Park said.

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said providing modern, sustainable and secure staff accommodation in regional, rural and remote locations will help to attract and retain paramedics.

“This $10 million boost to accommodation for our paramedic workforce follows the rollout of an additional 500 paramedics for regional and rural NSW and will support NSW Ambulance staff who take on these positions,” she said.

Health Services Union NSW Secretary Gerard Hayes said the housing crisis can become a healthcare crisis for rural and regional towns if safe and secure housing for essential workers can’t be provided.

“We welcome more accommodation for our hard-working paramedics,” Mr Hayes said.

“Paramedics are invaluable to regional and rural towns. They deserve to be supported to care for people in those areas. Removing the stress of finding safe, secure and affordable housing is a big part of recognising the value of these essential workers.”