$11.6 million for drug rehab facilities in the north
Mackay, Townsville and North Queensland will receive $11.6 million for local drug and alcohol rehabilitation services as part of the Government’s plan to combat the scourge of ice in communities across the country.The funding will help to reduce demand for ice and reduce addict-based crime by supporting local rehabilitation services to help get addicts off ice and out of the drug market.The clear feedback from families dealing with ice addiction is that more rehabilitation facilities are needed.At the two Ice Forums conducted in my electorate last year, family members were certainly crying out for more treatment and rehab facilities and today’s announcement of $11.6 million for such services is welcome news.
Hospital jobs losses a bogus claim
MEMBER for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert has been found guilty of unnecessarily scaring doctors and nurses about job losses following today’s COAG decision on hospital funding.Ms Gilbert wanted to pre-empt the outcome of today’s Council of Australian Governments meeting and proclaim that Mackay was in danger of losing 32 doctors and 113 nurses.There was never a danger that jobs would be cut.It was the size of the increase that was in dispute.It was the size of the increase that was in dispute.
Centre to cater for more medicos
A plan to create an expanded medical facility in Mackay’s city centre will provide space for teaching medical students and GPs.I congratulate One Stop Medical Centre’s owner Dr Rachel Bidgood, who has been successful in her application for a Rural and Regional Teaching Infrastructure Grant (RRTIG).This $300,000 of Federal Government funding will ultimately provide better health outcomes for the people of Mackay.Dr Bidgood plans an extension consisting of five consultation rooms, a training room, library, treatment room and two rooms for visiting specialists.
Budget measures good for jobs & families
Families will find measures to make life easier, businesses will reap a tax cut and jobs will be created after the Liberal National Government’s Budget is handed down tomorrow.This Budget is about building jobs, growth and opportunities while still charting a path to debt reduction.A new Child Care Subsidy will be introduced from July 2017 which will mean families with incomes of between $65,000 and $170,000 will be around $30 a week better off.
Your views on diabetes
WE are seeking your input on diabetes to help guide the Government's development of a National Diabetes Strategy.How has the condition affected you and your family?Has it affected your ability to work?What do you think are the best ways to prevent, treat and cure diabetes?Please give us your input via the website at https://consultations.health.gov.au before Friday, May 17.