Record Funding For Queensland’s Health …
The 2022-2023 State Budget delivers record funding for Queensland’s health and hospital system, including $1.944 billion for the Gold Coast region, to ensure better, quicker healthcare for all Queenslanders.
Across the state, the record $22.6 billion Health Budget includes investment in new infrastructure and more beds; a larger workforce; a focus on mental health; and innovative reforms to Queensland’s health system.
For the Gold Coast Health and Hospital Service, this includes the Gold Coast University Hospital Modular Expansion, a $72 million project expected in the second half of 2023, providing 70 additional beds; the continued funding of $105.5 million toward the Gold Coast Secure Mental Health Unit, providing 40 new beds in 2024; the Robina Hospital Expansion that will deliver 114 additional beds; and $16.5 million for the Robina Hospital Transit Lounge Expansion, providing 20 more beds for the Emergency Department in the second half of 2023.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said the State Budget would support strong growth in the health workforce, committing to employ an extra 9475 staff in this term of government.
“Investment in our healthcare workforce is vital – they are our greatest asset, and the reason Queenslanders continue to receive first-class healthcare every day,” she said.
Minister D’Ath said the budget included $1.1 billion for the Queensland Ambulance Service, and a focus on improving mental health and wellbeing.
“The investment will help QAS prioritise regional and rural services to ensure accessible healthcare no matter the location, as we recruit more frontline staff and open new facilities,” she said.