Somerville residents fear their town could once again be overlooked, with a promised Medicare Urgent Care Clinic now appearing likely to be built in Hastings instead.
The clinic was announced in the March federal budget as a major investment for Somerville, aimed at providing bulk-billed urgent care for non-life-threatening conditions and reducing pressure on hospital emergency departments.
However, recent tender documents show the government is now seeking providers with a focus on Hastings — raising concerns Somerville may lose out on what was billed as a long-awaited boost to local health services.
Somerville Still Listed — For Now
A statement was issued by Federal Minister Mark Butler MP, on 22 August 2025 still includes Somerville among the confirmed clinic locations in Victoria. The announcement confirms Somerville alongside areas such as Bayside, Pakenham, Lilydale, Diamond Creek, Clifton Hill, Coburg, Stonnington, and Torquay as beneficiaries of new facilities The inclusion of Somerville in the official rollout suggests the town has not been entirely written off — but ambiguity remains as the tender process unfolds. Locals say the back-and-forth on the clinic’s location echoes a familiar pattern of unfulfilled promises.
A “Forgotten Town” Speaks Up
The Somerville Business Group has labelled the potential shift as a “backflip” on previous assurances.
“This can’t be right? Federal government seem to be backflipping on a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Somerville… Initiatives like this will be great for Somerville… A clinic in Somerville will be used by people from Pearcedale, Baxter, Mt Eliza, Moorooduc and Tyabb…”
Residents note Somerville sits awkwardly between Hastings, Mornington, and Frankston — yet consistently misses out on essential infrastructure, including hospitals and transport links.
Political Voices React
Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie has raised concerns that the government should clarify and consult before shifting projects promised to her community.
“When governments make big undertakings to our community, locals deserve to see them delivered where and how they were promised, or at least be consulted on a significant change.”
Labor State Member for Hastings, Paul Mercurio, has been contacted for comment but has not responded.
Sarah Race who ran against Zoe McKenzie MP as the Labor candidate said:
“Families on the Mornington Peninsula deserve the best healthcare, and Labor is delivering this in Western Port. Providing bulk billed care, for non-life threatening conditions, seven days a week, for extended hours and with no appointment needed is a big win for our community!”
What Happens Next?
The government lists Somerville among the rollout locations in its August media release, indicating the project remains in play. However, with tender processes underway and competition for provider contracts active, confusion continues to simmer.
A clear statement from the Department of Health — confirming Somerville’s inclusion and timelines — is needed to reassure local residents who fear being left behind yet again.
