Kawana MP Jarrod Bleijie has welcomed big budget announcements for health and education as part of the Government’s strong plan for a brighter future.
Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service has gained a big funding injection, with almost $370 million allocated this financial year for the Coast’s state of the art new public hospital in the heart of Kawana, on top of almost $700 million to deliver health services in the region.
“Health funding remains one of Kawana residents’ highest priorities and after years of Labor neglect I’m delighted the Newman LNP Government is able to revitalise health services for our region in this budget,” Mr Bleijie said.
“The Government has already cut dental waiting lists, reduced hospital overnight length of stay times and slashed ambulance ramping.
“We’ve fast-tracked the $1.8 billion Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital’s construction – Australia’s first new, not replacement, major public hospital in more than 20 years – and the funding in this budget will ensure construction powers ahead for a 2016 opening.
Almost $4.1 million will be spent on local schools, with Meridan State College set to receive $2.2 million for classrooms, staff facilities and two outdoor Project Development Areas.
Chancellor State College will gain more than $600,000 to fund new buildings and outdoor teaching areas.
“Both of these projects will greatly enhance accommodation for the schools’ grade 7 students.
“All Kawana schools will also receive a share of nearly $1.3 million in Great Results Guarantee funding.”
Kawana electorate will also gain a new ambulance station at Currimundi, with $500,000 set aside in the budget to fund the project.
“This is a welcome addition to local emergency services, on the back of the recent delivery of new ambulances at the Buddina station,” Mr Bleijie said.
“Other budget highlights include a new $23.6 million electricity substation at Birtinya, with Energex contributing $13.7 million towards the project.
“More than $113,000 in grant funds for the Innovation Centre will be made available to boost the growth of local start-up companies and $300,000 will be provided to Sunshine Coast Destination Limited to support destination marketing, as part of the Government’s $7 million Regional Tourism Organisation Funding.
