Under the new national plan, Albury and Wodonga will be in separate primary health networks divided on state lines.

Hume Medicare Local chief executive David Dart has raised concerns about the impact of the changes and said having the towns in different regions would be a barrier to providing services.

Indi MP Cathy McGowan also raised concerns over the changes with Health Minister Peter Dutton in Parliament.

But Ms Ley, the member for Farrer, said there would be cross-border arrangements for Albury Wodonga Health which would address those concerns.

“We have an excellent and unique interstate health system servicing Albury-Wodonga and I am absolutely convinced this will thrive under our new plans,” she said.

“It is important to remember these new networks will not be providers of medical services, rather they are regional purchasers of health services.

“Here on the Border, the Department of Health has confirmed we will have a single primary health network clinical council, as well as a joint community based advisory group, formally advising both Murray and Western NSW on our specific needs.

“This will guarantee Albury Wodonga Health is central to future planning and health decision making for the cities.”

The new networks will come into effect next year.

Ms Ley said she was discussing the changes with Ms McGowan, Albury Wodonga Health and Hume Medicare Local.

Ms McGowan welcomed the news yesterday.

“If that’s what’s been able to come out, that’s fantastic,” she said.

“I’m very supportive.”