THE 2022-2023 State Budget has delivered record funding for Queensland’s health and hospital system, including an $817 million operating budget for the West Moreton region.
“The funding will ensure better, quicker healthcare for all Queenslanders,” says Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath.
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 West Moreton Health and Hospital Service, this includes Stage 2 of the Ipswich Hospital Expansion, a $710 million expansion that will deliver 200 new beds, to be completed in the second half of 2027; and an additional $85.4 million will be invested to deliver 90 new beds at the Satellite Hospital site at Ripley by the second half of 2024.
Minister D’Ath said the State Budget would support strong growth in the health workforce, while committing to employ an extra 9,475 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.
