Attract Connect Stay

Attract Connect Stay is a community-led initiative focused on addressing workforce shortages in rural healthcare and social care services. The organization employs a whole-of-community approach to help health professionals and their families transition into small rural communities, fostering settlement, social connection, and a sense of belonging. The initiative is led by Dr. Cath Cosgrave, an expert in rural health workforce attraction and retention. The organization offers place-based solutions to attract and retain workforce in rural areas. Key services include The Welcome Experience, which supports essential workers and their families considering relocation to rural communities, and Community Connector positions that assist healthcare professionals in settling in. Attract Connect Stay is also expanding its efforts to collaborate with local businesses across various sectors to enhance workforce development. The pilot program began in August 2021 in three New South Wales local government areas, targeting small towns with populations under 10,000. In Glen Innes, the initiative operates as Local Connect, a not-for-profit organization funded through membership fees, donations, and grants. The framework has also shown applicability in sectors such as education and legal services.