Townsville will receive nine more paramedics, thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s record frontline services funding in the 2019-20 State Budget.
Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said his local station, Kirwan Ambulance Station, was receiving a boost to staff.
“Kirwan Ambulance Station will be allocated five additional paramedics, plus more staffing resources to support an enhanced Inter-facility Transfer Unit,” Mr Harper said.
“This is on top of our Budget announcement to build a new Station for Kirwan to replace the old one, to ensure our paramedics have world-class facilities.
“As a former paramedic for over two decades, I know the importance of frontline services – I’m proud to say I’m delivering my election promises for Thuringowa.”
Member for Mundingburra Coralee O’Rourke welcomed the investment in health jobs..
“People in Townsville and North Queensland want us to create good, quality jobs across the region,” Mrs O’Rourke said.
“While the LNP cut nearly 400 health staff from our region, Labor has always hired and trained local health workers.
“The Palaszczuk Government can be counted on to deliver health jobs to regional Queensland.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the additional staff would make a world of difference.
“Townsville has a population that’s growing and ageing, and services need to expand to meet the needs of the community,” Mr Stewart said.
“Well-funded frontline health services are critical for keeping the community safe.
“The Palaszczuk Government will always prioritise keeping Queenslanders healthy.”
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the announcement is part of a massive investment of 200 new paramedics across Queensland.
“It’s part of our record $885.7 million QAS budget which includes a funding boost of $85.4 million,” Mr Miles said.
“This funding means our hardworking paramedics, emergency medical dispatchers and patient transport officers have the equipment, training and resources required to continue to meet the increasing demand for services.
“This State Budget is about two things: providing high quality services and creating jobs in regional Queensland.”
