Northern NSW Local Health District is reminding local residents and visitors of the various healthcare options available to support people over the Christmas and New Year period.

The District’s Executive Director Clinical Operations, Lynne Weir, said that while hospital emergency departments will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, people can also seek medical care from a local GP, an urgent care clinic, medical centre, pharmacist or virtual service.

“If an illness or injury is not serious or life-threatening, we encourage people to call healthdirect on 1800 022 222, for free, instant health advice any time of the day or night. A registered nurse will answer your call, ask some questions and connect you with the right care,” Ms Weir said.

“Healthdirect is great for anyone who is not familiar with local health services, are unsure where to go to seek help, or need healthcare advice.

“We are also fortunate to have two Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in the Northern NSW region, at Lismore and a new clinic at Tweed Heads South, which opened last week.

“These clinics offer free Medicare-funded services for people with non-life-threatening conditions, providing greater choice when people need urgent or after-hours medical care.”

Medicare Urgent Care Clinics provide treatment for urgent, but not life-threatening, injuries or illnesses. These may include minor infections, minor fractures, sprains, sports injuries, neck and back pain, urinary tract infections, and insect bites.

The Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are open from 7.30am to 7.30pm, seven days a week, 365 days per year, including public holidays. They offer same-day, bulk-billed care with walk-in access and are located at:

• Lismore Urgent Care Clinic, 33-35 Rous Road, Goonellabah
• Tweed Urgent Care Clinic, 33-35 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South.

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

Ms Weir extended her thanks to all NNSWLHD staff for their commitment and efforts during what was a busy year for health services in the region.

“As 2025 ends and we move towards 2026, I’d like to acknowledge and thank all staff across our hospitals and services who continue to provide quality care to ensure our patients and consumers have the best health outcomes,” Ms Weir said.

“Please look after yourselves and each other as we come together over the holiday season. Make safe choices on the road, around water, and in the heat. Check in on loved ones, stay hydrated, and seek shade or air‑conditioning during extreme temperatures. A little care goes a long way.” 

For free health advice anytime, day or night, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. Need support in your language? You can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask for healthdirect.

More information on mental health services and support can be found on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/services/Pages/default.aspx.