The Nationals WA have unveiled an election commitment to get regional healthcare back-on-track after eight years of neglect under Labor.
The Nationals in Government will introduce a $400 million Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF), funded through a revitalised Royalties for Regions program, to fast-track critical health infrastructure in the regions.
Lachlan Hunter, candidate for Central Wheatbelt said the healthcare of regional West Australians has suffered for too long under the Cook Labor Government.
“This Government has poured billions of dollars into vanity projects in the city, while our hospitals and medical services in the regions are run-down and worn-out.
“Labor has chosen to put multiple regional hospital re-developments on the backburner across the state including Meekatharra, Mullewa, Tom Price and Laverton, with these communities not seeing any progress in nearly a decade.
“In the Central Wheatbelt electorate, Cunderdin Hospital has waited over 10 years for a purpose-built palliative care unit, with the community’s calls and concerns continually being ignored by this Labor Government.
“The healthcare of West Australians for this Government should be a necessity, not a choice.” said Mr Hunter.
He said that maintaining healthcare infrastructure was also key to building thriving communities.
“Those who live, work and travel in regional Western Australia deserve the same access to healthcare as they would in the city, and ensuring medical services are maintained is key to sustaining regional communities and helping them to grow.
“Modern fit-for-purpose facilities also play a critical role in attracting and retaining staff – a challenge many regional communities across the state are facing during a healthcare crisis.”
Maintaining regional hospitals is also key to alleviating pressure on the healthcare system in metropolitan Perth.
“We know that the healthcare system in Perth is struggling, so it is crucial we maintain healthcare infrastructure and services to take the pressure off.” said Mr Hunter.
“The Nationals in Government will make sure that every Western Australian has access to high quality healthcare no matter where they live.”
