The University of Sydney's Rural Reach: Education, Research and Workforce Development Across NSW
Rural placements helping shape the next generation of health professionals from the Far West to the Northern Rivers, the University of Sydney is helping future health professionals build the skills, confidence and connections needed to thrive in rural communities.
Through the Broken Hill University Department of Rural Health (BHUDRH) and the University Centre for Rural Health (UCRH) in Lismore, the University supports student placements across an extensive network that spans regional, rural and remote New South
Wales. Together, the two centres provide opportunities for students in medicine, nursing, allied health, dentistry, pharmacy and medical imaging to learn in real-world healthcare settings while contributing to local communities.
The scale of this footprint is significant. Broken Hill sits 1,145 kilometres from the University’s main campus, while Lismore is 732 kilometres away. Yet distance does not mean disconnection. Dedicated teaching facilities, student accommodation, academic
support and strong local partnerships ensure students can make the most of their rural experience.
“Working with the BHUDRH is really positive. It’s a fantastic, collaborative relationship which in turn, means strong learning opportunities for students,” Tanya Health Service Manager at Buronga HealthOne said.
In 2026, 427 students completed placements through BHUDRH. At UCRH, more than 600 medical, nursing and allied health students undertook rural placements and learning experiences in 2025, supported by multidisciplinary education programs, simulation-based
training and extensive student support.
For many students, the rural experience changes perspectives. Lucy, a University of Sydney Occupational Therapy student who undertook a Northern Rivers placement commented on that shift: “I didn’t realise how hard it was to get health support in general in rural locations. I came in on the first day to orientation and immediately it was barrier after barrier. Going forward, I would think about taking a rural health job if I got the opportunity.” Rural placements provide opportunities that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Working closely with healthcare teams, they often gain greater autonomy, broader clinical exposure and deeper insight into the health needs of rural communities.
“We have more autonomy on a rural placement with great staff and student support,” said USYD dental student Sung Uh.
Greer, nursing student, described the placement experience as both professionally and personally rewarding.
“The accommodation was absolutely fantastic and exceeded my expectations. It made placement so easy and enjoyable, and it was such a great way to make friends outside of placement hours.”
Research shows these experiences deliver lasting benefits. Recent UCRH-led research found students undertaking extended allied health placements reported increased confidence in assessment, diagnosis and care planning, while also feeling more prepared
for professional practice and teamwork. The study also demonstrated benefits for the communities’ hosting students, including increased access to allied health services for older people.
Research is a key part of the University’s rural presence. Alongside education and workforce development, both BHUDRH and UCRH undertake community-focused research that tackles some of the most pressing challenges facing rural and remote
Australia.
At UCRH, this work has attracted more than $14 million in research funding across 2024 and 2025 and contributed to 81 peer-reviewed publications. Research spans areas including Aboriginal health, health equity, workforce development and climate resilience. BHUDRH researchers likewise work closely with communities and partners to generate evidence that informs healthcare delivery, policy and education outcomes.
In 2025, BHUDRH, alongside the Aus Hearts Project, secured a $4.8 million grant from the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). Led by the University of Sydney, the initiative adapts the WHO’s global HEARTS package to improve early detection and blood pressure control, with a major focus on regional, rural and remote Australia.
By combining high-quality student placements with strong research programs and community partnerships, the University of Sydney is helping to strengthen the rural health workforce while improving health outcomes across New South Wales.