Victoria is transforming public pathology services to ensure all Victorians have access to high-quality diagnostics. Pathology is at the heart of modern healthcare. Timely, accurate results help clinicians diagnose illness, guide treatments, and monitor recovery. Strengthening our public pathology system builds a safer and more sustainable health system for everyone.
The transformation will bring public pathology services together into two pathology networks. It will also expand their reach across Victoria.
Key elements of the reform
Consolidation of public pathology services
Victoria's public pathology system is moving to a new model that brings services together into two networks. The networks will operate under the umbrella of ‘Public Pathology Victoria.’
These networks will be led by Melbourne Health and Bayside Health (currently Alfred Health until 1 January 2026). Member health services will transition their pathology services and pathology staff to one of the lead health services.
The lead services will manage and deliver pathology services across the network. Each new network will combine existing pathology services and make sure they meet national standards. Technology systems will also be upgraded to support safe information sharing and reduce duplication.
Expansion of public pathology
Victoria is also addressing gaps in access to diagnostic services by strengthening public services in areas that need more support. This will help more people to get care closer to home.
The Pathology Framework
A Pathology Framework is guiding this work. It outlines the Victorian Government's vision for organising public pathology services into two major networks, each led by a health service.
The framework defines the roles and responsibilities of the lead health services, participating health services, and the Department of Health. It includes minimum requirements that must be met for networks to be formally established under the health service-led model, ensuring Victorians can access high-quality pathology services.
The Pathology Framework was developed with input from key stakeholders, including impacted services, peak bodies and relevant industrial partners. It was also informed by contemporary evidence and literature.
The pathology networks
Pathology networks are groups of health services with pathology services that work together to provide high quality testing. Under the new model, two main networks will be established. One led by Bayside Health and one led by Melbourne Health.
- Public Pathology Victoria, led by Bayside Health will include Monash Health, and Western Health will join later in 2025-26.
- Public Pathology Victoria, led by Melbourne Health will include The Royal Children's Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and The Royal Women's Hospital.
Northern Health, Eastern Health and Austin Health are anticipated to join one of the two networks in the future. The timing of their inclusion is in the planning stages.
Austin Health is currently leading the rollout of public pathology services at Bendigo Health. This is expected to be in place by late 2025 and will consolidate its pathology operations across the Loddon Mallee region.
By working together, these networks can share resources, shorten test times, and make better use of skilled staff. This approach ensures Victorians will benefit from consistent, reliable and innovative pathology services.
Expected benefits of the program
The Pathology Reform Program will deliver benefits for patients, staff, and the entire health system.
For patients
- More services available close to home.
- Shorter wait times for diagnosis and treatment.
For staff
- Greater opportunities for training and career growth.
- Improved communication and collaboration between services.
- Access to equipment and new technology.
For the health system
- Reduced duplication of services.
- Efficient use of shared resources.
- Improved quality and safety across Victoria.
- Better use of data to drive ongoing improvements.
These benefits support the program's core purpose: ensuring Victorians can access timely, accurate and high-quality pathology services, strengthening the health system for the future.
Reviewed 06 November 2025