General News
1 August, 2024
Government non-committal on health service funds
THE Victorian Government has hit out at opposition claims local health services are facing slashed budgets and potential amalgamations.
Concern for the future of local health services has been growing following a ‘Future of Our Health Forum’ organised by Member for Wannon Dan Tehan and Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell, which was held in Warrnambool last month.
As Western District Newspapers reported last week, the opposition MPs raised concerns local health services could face significant funding cuts or forced mergers with larger regional health services when budgets are handed down.
Following the forum, a rally has been planned for Friday, August 16 as members of the community seek to send a clear message of protection for health services in the region.
Last week Western District Newspapers approached the State Government with questions regarding the rumours of heavy budget cuts and potential amalgamation with larger health services.
In response, the Victorian Government accused the opposition of running a “shameless fear mongering campaign”.
Western District Newspapers understands an independent committee has provided its report to the Victorian Government for consideration ahead of the decision for heath service budgets and structures, but no decisions have been made.
“We are delivering a massive 28 per cent pay rise to Victoria’s nurses and midwives,” the spokesperson said.
“We are investing a record $20 billion into our hospitals this year alone, and an additional $8.8 billion multi-year investment in this year’s budget.”
Western District Newspapers understands the Victorian Government engaged Independent Expert Advisory Committee to seek insight of health services to contribute to contribute to the optimal design and governance of the public health service system.
It is expected final budgets for health services will soon be set, with discussions ongoing.
The Victorian Government spokesperson said Labor would defend its track record on health against the Opposition.
“Only Labor invests in our health system,” the spokesperson said.
“The Liberal National Party continues to run a shameless fear mongering campaign.
“The Opposition is the only political party that cuts and closes hospitals.”