Fiona Phillips's recent appearances (OpenAustralia.org)
Australia Day Awards and Honours | Private Members' Business | House debates
I'm so proud of the six outstanding residents who were recognised on the 2026 Australia Day Honours List for their selfless service to communities right across my Gilmore electorate. Eurobodalla...
I'm so proud of the six outstanding residents who were recognised on the 2026 Australia Day Honours List for their selfless service to communities right across my Gilmore electorate. Eurobodalla Meals on Wheels president Phillip Armstrong of Broulee was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the community. Mr Armstrong has been a member of the Moruya Rotary Club since the year 2000 and, through his roles as treasurer, president and foundation chair, has been involved with drought relief and bushfire recovery efforts. He is a former district governor for Rotary International District 9710 and was named Rotarian of the Year for 2019-2020, the organisation's highest honour. A former international chair and board member of Campbell Page Australia, Mr Armstrong is also a former CEO, state board member and life member of Banksia Villages and has been involved with age and community services in New South Wales and the ACT. Now a resident of Rosedale on the far South Coast, William Baker was awarded an OAM for his service to the community of Queanbeyan. A retired lawyer, Mr Baker is the President of Treehouse Queanbeyan, a charity that supports children with developmental delay or disability, and he founded the Treehouse family fund. He was a founding member and former president of the Queanbeyan Business Council and has held executive roles with the Telopea swimming club, Triathlon ACT and the New South Wales Country Children's Services Association. Mr Baker was chair of the selection committee for the Sydney Olympics Australian triathlon team and has been involved with many children and youth organisations. Decorated former police officer and Rotarian Kenneth Hutt of Berry was awarded an OAM for his service to the community. A member of the Berry Rotary Club, foundation director and former international director, Mr Hutt went above and beyond—literally—to raise funds for Rotary's End Polio Now campaign. The Berry adventurer reached dizzying heights by paragliding at locations around the world, including Mount Everest in the Himalayas and the Lobuche Peak in Nepal. A member of the Sports Aviation Federation of Australia, his efforts featured in the 2022 Fly from Everest documentary. Mr Hutt's incredible dedication secured him a swag of rotary awards, including the Paul Harris Fellow and the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal with Indian Ocean clasp. Margaret Snelling of Kiama was awarded an OAM for her service to hockey, but her contributions go way beyond the hockey field. Mrs Snelling was a player, committee member, umpire and coach with the Kiama Hockey Club for more than 40 years and was made a life member of the Kiama Ladies Hockey Club in 1991. She is a life member of Illawarra South Coast Hockey, played for the New South Wales veterans ladies team and shared her passion with young players, kicking off Minkey, mini hockey, in the 1970s. Mrs Snelling dedicated 65 years to Kiama's Saints Peter and Paul Catechist Ministry, where she coordinated the parish knitting group and taught scripture at local schools. And she was a delivery driver with Kiama Meals on Wheels for 50 years. The fifth OAM for Gilmore was awarded to Shane Wicks from Gerringong. The retired New South Wales ambulance paramedic is a life member and former captain of the Gerringong Rural Fire Brigade. He has been a flood rescue operations officer with the New South Wales State Emergency Service. And he is the President of Surf Life Saving New South Wales's South Coast Branch. A volunteer and life member of the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club, Mr Wicks keeps locals and visitors safe on our beaches, and he takes his paramedic experience onto the field as Gerringong Lions rugby league club's medical support officer. He also provides important mental health support for young people in our community. Mr Wicks has been awarded the National Medal, the National Emergency Medal and the New South Wales Public Schools Parent of the Year. Kiama's Mitchell von Borstel was honoured with the Australian Corrections Medal. Mr von Borstel began his career at the Long Bay Correctional Complex in 2007, and he has risen through the ranks to senior assistant superintendent at the Security Operations Group, where he engages in high-risk interventions and critical-incident responses at sites across New South Wales. Congratulations and thank you to these six sensational Gilmore residents.
Medicare | Private Members' Business | House debates
On Friday I met with Dr Eva Morris and her husband and practice manager, Jason Morris, at the St Georges Basin Medical Centre, who jumped at the chance to register for the Bulk Billing Practice...
On Friday I met with Dr Eva Morris and her husband and practice manager, Jason Morris, at the St Georges Basin Medical Centre, who jumped at the chance to register for the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program. Dr Morris said they took up the incentive because it's good for their business and good for their patients. They want to make a difference in their community, and they want to help their patients, including older patients, many with multiple health conditions, and young families, who are feeling the cost-of-living pinch. They're also helping to train new doctors in the region, which is fantastic. The St Georges Basin Medical Centre is one of 32 medical practices across Gilmore that have transitioned to fully bulk-billing all patients. I'm so pleased that, since the bulk-billing incentive program came into effect, on 1 November, the number of fully bulk-billing medical practices in my electorate has almost tripled. This is an absolute game changer for local patients, who now have improved access to the health care they need with just their Medicare card, not their credit card. Delivering on this election commitment is a massive help for families living in the smaller towns and villages in my electorate. Doctors in places like Gerringong, Shoalhaven Heads, Culburra Beach, Callala Bay and Sussex Inlet are now fully bulk-billing. People can now see a doctor for free at fully bulk-billed practices in the villages of Mollymook, Surf Beach and Broulee and in the major towns of Nowra, Moruya and Ulladulla. I know this important cost-of-living measure is helping struggling families and older people in my region and right across the country, thanks to the Albanese Labor government's single-largest investment in Medicare since its creation more than 40 years ago. From 1 January this year, we've introduced a whole gamut of health services that are saving the hip pocket and, importantly, saving lives around the nation. We're ensuring Australians can access the medicines they need at an affordable price, with PBS scripts now capped at $25, or just $7.70 for those who hold a concession card. Without the PBS, Australian patients would pay thousands of dollars for life-saving medicines. Instead, $25 PBS scripts will save Australians more than $200 million each year. We're adding more life-saving and disease-preventing medicines to the PBS every month to help men, women and children. Just last week, Andriga-10 was added to the PBS to provide life-changing help for men with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Without the PBS, patients might pay $930 per script. Since July 2022 we've approved extra funding for 399 new and amended listings on the PBS. As a woman and a mum, I know just how much we're helping women and their families by subsidising the cost of contraceptive pills, hormone therapies for menopause, and medicines for endometriosis. In just one year, more than 610,000 Australian women have saved money since essential women's health medications were listed on the PBS as part of our landmark $792.9 million women's health package. From 1 January, Australians have had even better access to free health advice, with the 1800MEDICARE telehealth service, website and mobile app. The new Medicare Mental Health Check In also went live on New Year's Day, giving easy and free access to early support for Australians experiencing mild mental health challenges. Of course, we're opening more Medicare urgent care clinics in every corner of the country, and I'm proud to say the Batemans Bay Urgent Care Clinic is going great guns and is operating 18 hours a day. I know my community cannot wait for the doors to open on the new Medicare urgent care clinic in Nowra very soon, which will take pressure off Shoalhaven Hospital's emergency department. Our investment in Medicare is already having a massive impact in my electorate, which is home to one of the highest populations of aged pensioners in the country. We also have many young families and low-income earners who are reaping the benefits of a better, fairer and stronger health system that the Albanese Labor government promised and that we are delivering.
Housing | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness and Minister for Cities. What is the Albanese Labor government doing to build more houses in the regions and help more...
My question is to the Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness and Minister for Cities. What is the Albanese Labor government doing to build more houses in the regions and help more regional Australians into homeownership after a decade of neglect?
Cost of Living | Matters of Public Importance | House debates
People in my electorate of Gilmore put their faith in me once again at last year's election because they know, as part of the Albanese Labor government, I will continue to deliver for my local...
People in my electorate of Gilmore put their faith in me once again at last year's election because they know, as part of the Albanese Labor government, I will continue to deliver for my local community. I've delivered important community infrastructure, like the Jervis Bay intersection flyover, which is well underway, the new RFS sheds at Manyana and Lake Conjola, a new surf lifesaving club at Gerringong and the reconstruction of the Mogo Local Aboriginal Land Council building, which was destroyed in the Black Summer bushfires. The people of Gilmore voted for cheaper medicines, cheaper child care, free TAFE, reduced student debt and tax cuts. They voted for more bulk-billing GP clinics and wage increases for our wonderful aged-care workers, and they voted for Medicare urgent care clinics, with the new Nowra Medicare Urgent Care Clinic due to open very soon. I can't understand on what planet any of these significant local projects or important cost-of-living initiatives equate to reckless spending. Do those opposite want to pull the pin on the new Nowra Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, leaving people in my community waiting hours for medical attention at the overcrowded Shoalhaven Hospital ED? Do they want to slash the $752 million for the Milton Ulladulla bypass, which has been in the 'too hard' basket for more than two decades? Will they tell my community that the Princes Highway duplication between the Jervis Bay road turnoff and Tomerong is a waste of money? Do they want to scrap plans for the revitalisation of the Nowra Riverfront Precinct, which will support local jobs and provide more housing? Or maybe they want to sink the upgrade of the Shoalhaven marine rescue base? Or maybe those opposite can tell the kids at Gerringong that plans to upgrade their clubhouse at Gerry Emery oval have tanked or notify the Batemans Bay Seahawks Football Club that their new clubhouse has been axed? I'm proud that the Albanese Labor government is backing our regions, our families and our communities. We've made a record investment in funding for regional roads through the Black Spot program, Roads to Recovery and, in my area, a special $40 million Shoalhaven roads package to help the council fix local roads. Should we scrap that essential road funding and put drivers at risk? Do those opposite, who claim to support regional and rural areas, want to slash funding for the New South Wales South Coast? We're boosting our regions with better roads, more doctors, full funding for our public schools and more funding for our hospitals, and we're helping people buy their first home. What's got to go from those opposite? To say that these important investments are reckless spending just goes to show how out of touch they really are with everyday Australians. Like everyone on this side of the chamber, I know people in my electorate are doing it tough. That's why we're doing something about it. We're helping families, students, our older residents and small businesses with tax cuts for every taxpayer, more bulk-billing and cheaper medicines. We're backing higher wages. We're helping train young people in Gilmore to become doctors, nurses, social workers, builders and electricians, with free TAFE, supported uni places and by slashing student debt—all policies those opposite opposed. We're getting on with the job of rolling out responsible cost-of-living relief, just like we said we would. People in the Gilmore electorate tell me every day how the expanded hours at the Batemans Bay Medicare Urgent Care Clinic have helped them or their loved ones, and people in Nowra are champing at the bit for their new Medicare urgent care clinic to open—as am I. I'm so thrilled that the number of fully bulk-billed medical centres in my electorate has almost tripled, from 10 to 27, in just the past three months. And so many people in Gilmore have told me that our cheaper medicines are making a huge difference to their household budgets, with PBS scripts now costing no more than $25. We'll continue to deliver across every portfolio to help people with the cost of living.
Gilmore Electorate: Military History | Constituency Statements | House debates
Last week I was pleased to drop into the Nowra Museum and meet with the enthusiastic and dedicated members of the Shoalhaven Historical Society. The local historians work really hard to look...
Last week I was pleased to drop into the Nowra Museum and meet with the enthusiastic and dedicated members of the Shoalhaven Historical Society. The local historians work really hard to look after and showcase the history of our region. As a proud defence town, it's really important to ensure our military history is preserved. That's why I was delighted to announce that a very special Red Ensign flag will be restored, thanks to a federal government Saluting Their Service commemorative grant. The flag was presented to World War I volunteer recruits as they departed Nowra as part of the 1915 Waratahs march. The flag represents a significant day in our town's history, so I was happy to support the Shoalhaven Historical Society's application for $2,420 to preserve it. The Waratahs march Red Ensign is such an important piece of local military history. It represents the sacrifice that so many young men from right across the Shoalhaven made in World War I. The grant will ensure the restoration of the fragile flag so that it can be safely stored and displayed on special occasions at the Nowra Museum. The Nowra Red Cross president, Mrs Rodway, presented the Red Ensign to Captain Blow when the Waratahs march left Nowra on 30 November 1915 bound for Sydney's Centennial Park. According to the Shoalhaven News at the time, an enthusiastic demonstration was held outside the Nowra post office in Junction Street—which is just outside my electorate office—as the 70-strong group heeded the call of the Empire. The Waratahs recruited men as they marched north along the coast through Bomaderry, Berry, Gerringong, Kiama and Jamberoo, and 120 volunteers had enlisted by the time they arrived in Sydney on 18 December 1915. Most of the Waratahs served as 1st Battalion reinforcements on the Western Front and, sadly, 28 of those young men never returned home. It's so important that stories of military service are commemorated and shared in a defence town like Nowra. The Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants program has funded thousands of projects nationwide, shining a light on the veteran community and the sacrifices they have made. Today I want to say a huge thank you to the Shoalhaven Historical Society members, including President Lyn Allen and Secretary Tim Rigney, for ensuring the survival of our Waratahs Red Ensign. Its preservation means people can learn about significant military events in our town's history for generations to come.
Bondi Beach Attack Victims | Condolences | House debates
At 9 am on 20 December, the waves lapped gently on the sand, and the morning sun warmed the solemn faces of hundreds of surf lifesavers who stood shoulder to shoulder on beaches right along the...
At 9 am on 20 December, the waves lapped gently on the sand, and the morning sun warmed the solemn faces of hundreds of surf lifesavers who stood shoulder to shoulder on beaches right along the New South Wales South Coast and far south coast. For three minutes, lifeguards, volunteer surf lifesavers, young Nippers and community members stood side by side in silence to pay respects to those who lost their lives at Bondi Beach one week earlier on 14 December, a day that changed our nation forever. It was heartwarming to see lifesavers from 10 local surf clubs in my electorate, from Kiama in the north to Moruya in the south, come together for this quiet moment of reflection, unity and solidarity. Today, on behalf of everyone in Gilmore, I pay my respects to those who are no longer with us because of the atrocious, antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi. We will never forget the victims, their families and the heroes who risked their own lives and who worked so hard to save complete strangers during the worst terrorist attack we've ever experienced in Australia. I want to thank all first responders, including the police, paramedics, lifeguards and volunteer surf lifesavers, who heroically put themselves in danger to protect and save others. The three minutes of reflection on local beaches was such a moving tribute to the victims and to acknowledge the Bondi lifesavers, many of whom are regular visitors to the South Coast and who came to the aid of our local community during the Black Summer bushfires. They are truly selfless and extraordinary human beings. When lifesavers around the nation held their faces up to the morning sun, they shone a light on what it means to be Australian, to be united, to be courageous and to be there for each other. I am so, so proud of each and every one of them for the courage and the incredible Aussie spirit they demonstrate every day. I know the shock, pain and grief of the Bondi attack are still so raw for those directly impacted, and the horrendous incident certainly sent shockwaves throughout my local community. Following the attack, I attended a prayer vigil on the lawns of the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre at Nowra. A community gathering was also held at Kiama's Coronation Park. Dozens of services were held at churches right across my electorate, and people lit candles in their homes to support our local Jewish community and to mourn the devastating loss of 15 innocent lives. Local Jewish woman Dani lost a family member at Bondi on 14 December, and she bravely, sadly, told the Shoalhaven gathering of her growing fears living as a Jew in Australia. However, with these words, Dani also said she held hope for the future. Dani said: Hearing your prayers, seeing you donate blood and having you all come out here tonight is what it means to be Australian … The heritage of our Aboriginal people, mateship and celebrating differences is what this country is made of. In Dani's words, 'Through the good and bad, we grow stronger together, when we come together and face it head on for each other.' We need to strengthen our laws to protect all Australians no matter their faith, their nationality or their beliefs, because everyone should have the right to feel safe. Today, as we remember those who are no longer with us, we must vow to do all we can to ensure the horrific Bondi Beach massacre is never, ever repeated on Australian soil.
Gilmore has an ageing population. In fact, compared to other electorates, Gilmore has one of the highest numbers of age pensioners, so I am acutely aware of the many issues facing our older...
Gilmore has an ageing population. In fact, compared to other electorates, Gilmore has one of the highest numbers of age pensioners, so I am acutely aware of the many issues facing our older residents. Almost daily, my office receives emails and calls from older constituents or their family members, seeking support for their aged-care needs, whether that's arranging lawnmowing, meals, help around their home or access to health services, or assisting with the transition to residential care. I know that for too long older residents in Gilmore and right around Australia have been left waiting for the care they deserve. Under the previous government the system wasn't fit for purpose, and that's exactly why we're rebuilding our aged-care system from the ground up. We want to ensure older people in our communities get the care they need, when and where they need it. Every Australian deserves dignity, respect and quality care as they age. Saturday 1 November was a historic day for aged-care reform in this country with the start of the new Aged Care Act. I'm so proud to be part of a Labor government that is turning things around. With our overhauled Aged Care Act now in place and the new Support at Home program providing a higher level of care for people in their homes, this is great news for our most vulnerable citizens. A higher level of care available at home means that more older Australians will be able to get the support they need without going into a clinical setting. Importantly, it means they'll be able to stay at home as they recover, without bouncing back into hospital. While the Commonwealth has responsibility for the aged care system, we're working closely with the states and territories, who manage our hospitals, because we know too many older people are spending far too long in hospital when they should be in a more appropriate care environment. This has been an ongoing issue in our aged-care system, and the pressures are being felt particularly in regional areas like Gilmore, where hospital beds are sometimes the only care options for our elderly. We know that every day an older Australian spends in hospital, when they should be in a more appropriate care environment, puts pressure on their wellbeing and, of course, on our hospital system. We don't want people stuck in hospital beds when they could be receiving the care they need in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by loved ones, or in dedicated short-term or permanent aged care. The royal commission told us Australia's aged care system was unacceptable and unsustainable, broken and neglected by those opposite for nine years. After almost a decade of inaction, the Albanese Labor government has taken major steps to bring about real change that will change lives now and for generations to come. We are delivering safer, fairer and more transparent care for older Australians that puts their rights and their quality of life at its heart. Our additional Support at Home places mean our older residents—our parents, grandparents, family members and neighbours—can get back to the people and places they call home. It means they can stay independent for as long as possible. Our new Aged Care Act is a major step forward that ensures people can stay connected to their families and friends, remain involved in their communities and enjoy enriched lives in their twilight years. In my electorate I love visiting the many seniors groups that are buzzing with life and that keep our older residents engaged, entertained and connected. As local people age, social support and connection become even more important, especially in regional multicultural communities that can be more heavily impacted by social isolation. I'm pleased to continue supporting seniors groups like those run by the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra, which received a $332,000 funding boost under the Commonwealth Home Support Program. Participants enjoy activities, games, dancing and singing, community outings and a home cooked meal for lunch. Importantly, this group has become a trusted entry point for people who might help with home-care packages and other aged-care services. We need to celebrate and respect our vibrant seniors and ensure their needs are met as they transition from supported living at home to aged care. There's more to do, but we're building a new aged-care system that will stand up to the challenges our nation will face as our population ages.
Aviation Industry | Private Members' Business | House debates
Moruya Airport is the only passenger airport in my electorate of Gilmore on the New South Wales South Coast in the Eurobodalla. It is of course in the southern part of the Gilmore...
Moruya Airport is the only passenger airport in my electorate of Gilmore on the New South Wales South Coast in the Eurobodalla. It is of course in the southern part of the Gilmore electorate—a very long, long drive to either Sydney or Canberra. Importantly, it provides a vital link for local people to access medical treatment and education opportunities in the city and to stay connected with family and friends. It also helps our many local food producers get their products to national and international markets. My friends, colleagues and community fly from Moruya to Canberra, Sydney and other regional areas in New South Wales. I know how important regional air services are for local people, businesses and communities like mine, which is why I'm thrilled that the Albanese Labor government stepped up to support Rex Airlines through a voluntary administration process. We've been working with the administrators of Rex to ensure crucial regional aviation services can remain in the air. We are committed to maintaining access to aviation services for regional and remote communities and recognise the critical role Rex plays in supporting local economies. The Albanese Labor government continues to back regional aviation just like we back regional telecommunications, because we know our great country towns and villages deserve quality services and connectivity just like our cities. This government has also stepped up to support regional airport upgrades, because we know they matter. We're investing almost $12 million to upgrade regional airports across New South Wales, including at Moruya. This funding, under round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, is delivering essential upgrades, such as runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting and drainage, which will improve safety, enhance accessibility and boost capacity at our regional airports. Work is underway to reseal the runway, taxiways and apron pavement and replace the apron lighting at Moruya Airport. This work ensures the continued safe operation of the airport, safeguarding its role as a lifeline for the community and a gateway for access to vital services and for visitors to the South Coast. Works will also support the continued use of the airport by emergency services including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and aerial firefighting, even for night and low-visibility operations, as well as by regular passenger services. I am absolutely delighted to see improvements at Moruya Airport, which is a lifeline for our economy. Our investment is helping to create more jobs, helping local farmers and supporting our social and economic connections across Australia. It is great news for our region. Upgrades like these aren't just improvements; they're the difference between regional residents getting medical help, firefighters getting access during an emergency and economies growing through tourism. The Albanese government represents more regional electorates than any other party, so we know the challenges they face when it comes to connectivity. That's why we have welcomed the recent announcement that the majority of creditors have voted in support of Air T's bid to acquire Rex. Air T's bid was endorsed by the government and includes a support package comprising a new loan of up to $60 million and a restructuring of existing Australian government debt. I am delighted that Air T has agreed to a range of commitments, including returning more aircraft to service and increasing the frequency of profitable flights across the Rex network. To safeguard this public investment, the government will retain its security over all Rex's aircraft and its simulator. This will ensure Rex's Saab fleet cannot be sold without the government's permission and will continue to service communities across regional and remote Australia. To further support local communities, we've established a new program, capped at $5 million, for local government and regional and remote airports that supported Rex through the voluntary administration process.
In good news, from 1 November more people in my electorate of Gilmore will be able to see their general practitioner for free. I know that, for too long, too many people have been paying too much...
In good news, from 1 November more people in my electorate of Gilmore will be able to see their general practitioner for free. I know that, for too long, too many people have been paying too much out of pocket when they go to their doctor, and that's why I welcome the Albanese Labor government's expanded bulk-billing incentives for GPs. Labor are making the largest investment in Medicare since its creation to ensure people can afford to see their GP. The expanded bulk-billing incentive for all Australians plus the creation of an additional new incentive payment for medical practices that bulk-bill every patient mean nine out of 10 GP visits will be bulk-billed by 2030. I'm really thrilled that more than 20 GP practices in Gilmore have already switched to being Medicare bulk-billing practices; 11 were mixed-billing practices. I've spoken to lots of local doctors on the South Coast who are making the choice to switch their practice to be fully bulk-billing clinics. They are taking up the incentives because it's good for their business and, of course, good for their patients as well. Grand Pacific Health in Nowra and the Queen Street Medical Centre in Moruya were among the first on the South Coast to sign on to become fully bulk-billing practices. They want to make a difference in the community and want to help their patients, many of whom are older with multiple conditions or are young families feeling the cost-of-living pinch. Grand Pacific Health Nowra Practice Manager Charise Morris said, 'Being sick was not cheap, especially for families and the chronically ill.' She told me that the change would make a huge difference, because, when people don't have to pay a gap fee to see their doctor for a general consult, that's money that can put food on the table. In three weeks since its introduction, I can see that Labor's investment in bulk-billing incentives is working. It had already been working for pensioners, concession card holders and families with kids, and now it has been expanded for every Australian. The Albanese Labor government's $8.5 billion investment into Medicare will deliver an additional 18 million bulk-billed GP visits each year, hundreds of nursing scholarships and thousands more doctors in the largest GP training program ever. We are also opening more Medicare urgent care clinics across the country, and I'm so pleased that, from 10 November, the very popular Batemans Bay Medicare Urgent Care Clinic has been operating 18 hours a day—the longest of any clinic in the country. We promised to expand the hours from 6 am to midnight before the busy summer holiday period, and that's what we've done. More than 20,000 people have walked through the doors since the Batemans Bay clinic opened. The community was crying out for longer hours to take pressure off the hospital and local doctors. The population swells over summer, so now locals and visitors will be able to seek urgent non-life-threatening care for all those pesky summer colds, holiday injuries, sprains and stings until midnight every day of the year without having to wait hours in the ED. I also can't wait for the doors to open on the brand new federally funded Medicare urgent care clinic in Nowra very soon; watch this space. We're making it cheaper for people to see a GP, no matter where they live. That's real, tangible cost-of-living relief for ordinary Australians.
Rex Airlines Pty Ltd | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government. How is the Albanese Labor government helping regional communities stay connected by...
My question is to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government. How is the Albanese Labor government helping regional communities stay connected by keeping Rex Airlines flying? What has been the response?
My question is to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government. How is the Albanese Labor government helping regional communities—
Medicare | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government's record investment in bulk-billing making it easier for Australians to see a GP for free after a decade...
My question is to the Minister for Health and Ageing. How is the Albanese Labor government's record investment in bulk-billing making it easier for Australians to see a GP for free after a decade of cuts and neglect? What has been the response to these changes?
The first day of November 2025 was a great day. It was, of course, when the Albanese Labor government's expanded bulk-billing incentives kicked in, expanding bulk-billing incentives to all...
The first day of November 2025 was a great day. It was, of course, when the Albanese Labor government's expanded bulk-billing incentives kicked in, expanding bulk-billing incentives to all Australians and also with an additional new incentive payment for practices that bulk-bill every patient. It follows on from our very successful tripling of the bulk-billing incentive two years ago in 2023 for pensioners, concession cardholders and students. That proved very, very popular. We saw bulk-billing rates increase in particular for this cohort of people. I can honestly say that this makes a huge difference in people's lives. People are doing it tough, and we have always said that we will provide cost-of-living relief where we can. The changes on 1 November did just that. They are being welcomed by a whole host of GP practices in my electorate of Gilmore that are keen to also provide some relief for patients. I visited Grand Pacific Health in Nowra, one of the first medical practices in Gilmore to sign on to become a fully bulk-billed practice. This is what practice manager Charisse Morris had to say: This will make a huge difference. If people don't have to pay that gap for general consults, that's food in their mouth. When you have to prioritise food or health, that's a problem. I couldn't agree more. This is much-needed, real relief for people. Just before 1 November, posts started popping up on Facebook by GP practices in Gilmore and our Facebook community groups, like this one from the Sussex Doctors at Sussex Inlet on the New South Wales South Coast. They said: Healthcare made more affordable at Sussex Doctors! We're proud to be a Fully Bulk Billing Clinic, ensuring everyone in our community can access quality medical care. … … … … … … From general consultations to care plans, we're here to support your health at every stage without financial stress. At Sussex Doctors, your health is our priority and now, it's more accessible than ever. They said: More access. Less cost. Better care. It's hard to argue with that, so I shared that post and people started commenting about other local GP practices also moving to bulk-billing every patient for GP visits. That included Bomaderry Creek Health Centre, which has a new pop-up on their Facebook page that says: Bulk billing for all patients starting 1st November 2025 From 1 November 2025, there are no out-of-pocket costs for your GP visits at Bomaderry Creek Health Centre. How good is that? Recently, I also I met with GPs at the Queen Street Medical Centre at Moruya. They are also taking up the expanded bulk-billing incentive. They told me what a significant difference this will mean for patients and their practice. The 12.5 per cent additional incentive payment for bulk-billing every patient was also so welcomed. And the earnings boost is larger in regional areas like Gilmore, with a GP at a rural practice that bulk-bills every visit to earn almost $24,000 more than a mixed-billing GP for providing the same number of services. We need more GPs in regional areas, and these expanded bulk-billing incentives help even more people in regional areas like mine. As at 27 October 2025, 21 GP practices in Gilmore indicated their intent to become a Medicare bulk-billing practice, with 11 of those being currently mixed-billing practices. From these expanded bulk-billing incentives, we've seen mixed-billing practices become full bulk-billing and more practices in total becoming full bulk-billing. Here's what John said: I already get bulk-billed. But I'm glad it's extending. When people can see a GP without having to sacrifice their children's nutrition or rent, it makes us all smarter. The Albanese Labor government has delivered the three largest increases in history, and now we're making the single largest investment in Medicare since its creation over 40 years ago. I'm also looking forward to the new Nowra Medicare urgent care clinic, which I know many people in my community are very much looking forward to as well, and I know that that's moving forward well. There is also the expanded hours for the Batemans Bay Medicare urgent care clinic, with the hours from 6 am to midnight, 18 hours a day—the longest of any urgent care clinic in the country. Labor created Medicare, and a Labor government will always strengthen Medicare.
Regional Australia: Roads | Private Members' Business | House debates
I love to talk about regional roads because I know how important roads are to people in my regional community. Everybody is talking about roads, even Cliff Hofman, who is a year 7 student at...
I love to talk about regional roads because I know how important roads are to people in my regional community. Everybody is talking about roads, even Cliff Hofman, who is a year 7 student at Bombaderry High School. Cliff won the Raise Our Voice competition in Gilmore, and last week I read out Cliff's speech in the Australian parliament. And you guessed it: Cliff's topic was about potholes and how he wants the local roads in the Shoalhaven to be fixed. I couldn't agree more with Cliff. That's why, after a decade of neglect by the former coalition government, the Albanese Labor government is delivering record investment funding for regional roads. Since coming to government, we've doubled the Roads to Recovery Program from $500 million to $1 billion. This has already been baked into the budget and will remain at a high level into the future. This is a significant change which will provide more funding to local councils. I know that, in Gilmore, the Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and Kiama councils rely on this funding—and now it's increased funding—to help fix local roads. What I like about the Roads to Recovery Program is that councils determine which local roads are to be funded under the program, and there are some beautiful and important roads that have been fixed and are set to be fixed into the future. Just last week Eurobodalla council staff sent me their list of roads for 2025-26, and I can say it is an extensive list of local roads that is benefiting from this program. Well done, Eurobodalla council. I know locals in the Eurobodalla shire will be eagerly awaiting and thankful for those local roads being fixed with additional funds. Despite writing to Shoalhaven City Council in July this year, requesting to be provided with regular updates on the $40 million Shoalhaven local roads package—funding that I secured as an election commitment and delivered in the October 2022 federal budget—I remain disappointed that Shoalhaven City Council has not provided me with that information. I am bemused by how something so simple, to provide simple information direct to me and the public in a regular and transparent way, can be so difficult. I know constituents in Gilmore would like a simple description of each of the six roads to be fixed and the estimated timelines for each road and intersection to be fixed. It's not that hard. We pay our rates and taxes. The good news is we've also significantly increased funding for the Black Spots Program. This is a great program, which we've increased from $110 million to $150 million annually, supporting more life-saving road improvements across the country. All local councils in Gilmore have benefited from this program, and it's great to see more local roads being fixed under the Black Spots Program thanks to extra funding from the Albanese Labor government. The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is also a fabulous federally funded program that helps local councils with projects such as roads, community halls, parks and sports facilities, bike paths and playgrounds, and it's terrific to see lots of great road and community infrastructure projects being funded in Gilmore under this program. When it comes to the larger road infrastructure projects, which I have been fighting for, they are either in construction or finally progressing well. I'm proud to be part of the Albanese Labor government that is getting on with these important regional road projects. You can't miss the construction progress on the Jervis Bay flyover, which now has the concrete girders in place to support the new bridge. Pleasingly the new bridge is set to be open by mid next year, making the intersection safer, with the project set for full completion in 2027. This was made possible with $100 million in federal funding. The Milton Ulladulla bypass is progressing well, with $752 million in federal funding. The Princes Highway duplication between the Jervis Bay turn-off and Tomerong is also progressing well, with $400 million in federal funding. And the Nowra bypass, after a decade of inaction from the Liberals, is in the early planning stage, with $97 million in federal funding. Whether it's providing more funding to help local councils with local roads or funding major roads projects, we're getting on with the job of fixing our regional roads.
Energy | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Climate Change and Energy. How are people in rural and regional Australia taking up the opportunities of clean, reliable energy? What are the threats to the...
My question is to the Minister for Climate Change and Energy. How are people in rural and regional Australia taking up the opportunities of clean, reliable energy? What are the threats to the best interests of rural and regional Australians?
Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program | Private Members' Business | House debates
Just a week ago I was standing at the Jervis Bay Road turn off marvelling at the deck of the new flyover where 11 massive super T girders had been installed. It was an awesome sight to see the...
Just a week ago I was standing at the Jervis Bay Road turn off marvelling at the deck of the new flyover where 11 massive super T girders had been installed. It was an awesome sight to see the 28-metre long concrete girders, each weighing 47 tonne, that had been transported from Newcastle and craned into place during a week of night works. The bridge deck marks an exciting milestone for this intersection, which sees the highest volume of traffic on the Princes Highway between Nowra and the Victorian border. The intersection upgrade and overpass will transform travel along the New South Wales South Coast and provide a key link to Huskisson and surrounding villages. The milestone installation will allow the construction of the bridge to take shape with a mid-2026 completion target, and the project is on track for completion in 2027. I pounded the pavement with local residents, petitioned, lobbied and worked with Vincentia Matters and I am proud to have delivered $100 million for this important infrastructure project. I have also secured $400 million to continue the Princes Highway upgrade to dual lanes from Jervis Bay Road South to Tomerong. I drive country roads every day as I travel the length and breadth of my electorate. It takes me over four hours to drive the hundreds of kilometres from one end of Gilmore to the other, with dozens of long winding local roads into 180 odd coastal and inland villages across the three local council areas of Kiama, Shoalhaven and the Eurobodalla. I know how important regional roads are, and I know the Albanese Labor government is committed to working with state and local governments to build and maintain them. Building better roads takes time, and work on our rural and regional roads is never really complete. Just as one project is finished, another one gets underway. In my electorate, I was pleased to secure a special $40 million Shoalhaven local roads package to upgrade six key local roads in the region. That was in October 2022, three years ago, but still not a sod has been turned on any of these road projects. When it comes to fixing local roads, filling the potholes, repairing land strips and making them more resilient against future natural disaster, this government is handing out the money for local councils, and it's up to our councils to get the job done. However, I am disappointingly finding it's impossible to get updates from the Shoalhaven mayor about the $40 million package I delivered three years ago, and the community is asking: when will our roads be fixed? Governments at every level need to invest in safety improvements and upgrades to keep up with growing communities. We're doubling the Roads to Recovery funding, money that goes straight to local councils to help fix local roads. As the Chair of the New South Wales Black Spot Consultative Panel, I'm so proud that the Albanese Labor government has significantly increased funding to the black spot program from $100 million to $150 million per year. I know how much this will help fix dangerous roads in our communities. We've also established the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which is addressing current and emerging priorities in road infrastructure needs. I drive rural roads every day, and I understand how important it is that they're maintained and upgraded to ensure we all get home safe every day. Living on the south coast, which has been hit hard by fire, floods and storms, I know firsthand how regional roads are impacted by natural disasters. Road safety is a top priority for people in my electorate, and that's why I have fought so hard to deliver more than $1 billion to get important road projects off the ground. When I drive around Gilmore, I'm immensely proud to see roadworks that I have championed completed or underway—major infrastructure projects like the Far North Collector Road, which was completed thanks to $35 million in federal funding, the Nowra bypass, moving forward with $97 million in federal funding, and the Milton Ulladulla bypass, which has $752 million in federal funding. These are some of Gilmore's big-ticket items, but just as important are the smaller road projects that are happening across my electorate thanks to federal funds. I'm deeply committed to addressing longstanding problems on local roads caused by extreme weather events and also future-proofing the local road network for expected population growth in the region. I will always fight for and deliver the road safety projects Gilmore locals want to see.
Repeal Net Zero Bill 2025; Second Reading | Bills | House debates
I rise to speak on the Repeal Net Zero Bill 2025. The member for New England has described this government's goal to reach net zero by 2050 as 'a lunatic crusade' and 'treacherous'. I think he...
I rise to speak on the Repeal Net Zero Bill 2025. The member for New England has described this government's goal to reach net zero by 2050 as 'a lunatic crusade' and 'treacherous'. I think he needs to take a good look in the mirror, because that's where he will see someone that is, quite frankly, completely out of touch with regional Australia. This government's ambitious plan to tackle climate change will help all Australians, no matter where they live. The member for New England says that regional people are furious, but I say that he needs to open his eyes and look at the impact that climate change is having, with fires, floods and drought. Yes, people are hurting. Yes, farmers are hurting. Yes, small businesses are hurting. That's why we need to take action right now. Climate change has had an absolutely devastating impact on my electorate of Gilmore. Lives were lost and hundreds lost their homes, businesses and livestock when the horrific Black Summer bushfires decimated the New South Wales South Coast in 2019-20. I challenge the member for New England to tell the people of Gilmore, who are still recovering, still rebuilding and still reliving those horrific weeks and months, that climate change and the road to net zero are a lunatic crusade. In recent years, we've not only been hit by fires; we've experienced record levels of rainfall and storm activity, resulting in flooding around our waterways and farmland. Homes have been inundated, crops and livestock have been destroyed, and farmers are still counting the costs from the relentless rain. Dairy and beef farmers, oyster growers and fruit and vegetable producers are all struggling after being hit by a string of fires, South Coast lows and rain bombs. Tell these farmers that the road to net zero is a lunatic crusade. Tell them our plan to reduce carbon emissions and reduce their energy costs by transitioning to renewables is treacherous. Record rainfall has led to dozens of landslips, closing roads and cutting off towns and villages across Gilmore for months. Farmers couldn't get their cattle out, and people couldn't get their kids to school. Families were isolated. Businesses suffered, especially those that rely on tourism, because people couldn't get there. Across my electorate, devastating downpours have wrecked our roads and footpaths. Seawalls have been destroyed, and bridges have literally washed away. And this government has stepped up to help local councils with their massive repair bills time and time again. Finally, after a decade of inaction, we are taking meaningful action to address climate change. Climate change isn't something that will maybe, perhaps, happen in the future; it's something that is happening right now. It's something that has happened, and we are experiencing it. It's not going to go away, so we have to take action. The member for New England wants to take our country back to the Stone Age. That's not what the Australian people voted for on 3 May. The message was loud and clear at the last election. Australians are ready to seize the opportunities a renewable energy future has to offer. I'm so proud to live in a regional area where people are switched on and playing their part in the country's transition to renewables. Across Australia, there have been more than 90,000 rooftop solar panel installations since our Cheaper Home Batteries Program started on 1 July. How good is that? People in my region are certainly not furious about net zero. They're not angry and they don't think the path to net zero is a lunatic crusade. From 1 July this year, we've been rolling out billions of dollars worth of responsible support to build a stronger economy and deliver cost-of-living relief for Australians. The Albanese Labor government has taken strong action to provide energy bill relief to Australian households and businesses. We're rolling out critical investments in renewable energy, because the sun and the wind don't send a bill, and we've acted to make the energy market fairer. Our new rules, coming into effect in 2026, will make sure retailers aren't ripping off customers, because Australians deserve a fairer go when it comes to their energy bills. We know there's more to do, but we're on the right track. We are acting on climate change now because the science is conclusive. I think the member for New England needs to wake up and face reality.
Aged Care | Questions without Notice | House debates
My question is to the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors. How are the Albanese Labor government's generational reforms rebuilding our aged-care system and delivering better care to more older...
My question is to the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors. How are the Albanese Labor government's generational reforms rebuilding our aged-care system and delivering better care to more older Australians?
Kiama Municipal Council, New South Wales: Kiama By-Election | Grievance Debate | House debates
I support the motion that grievances be noted, and I do have a grievance. It's a grievance that I really wish I didn't have to make, but I am at my wit's end. Kiama Municipal Council, it seems,...
I support the motion that grievances be noted, and I do have a grievance. It's a grievance that I really wish I didn't have to make, but I am at my wit's end. Kiama Municipal Council, it seems, has just not learnt anything from sticking its nose into the federal election campaign. Now it's moved into what can only be described as political meddling in the Kiama state by-election. Many will not know that, during the final weeks of the federal election, Kiama council was engaging in the strangest behaviour. I was hounded by the deputy mayor, Melissa Matters, demanding to meet. There were bizarre advocacy videos by the deputy mayor for projects that weren't shovel-ready, along with some incorrect facts, while the mayor, Cameron McDonald, was away. They looked more like Liberal and Dutton promotional pieces. Beforehand, there were even photos of the mayor, Cameron McDonald, with pro-nuclear Peter Dutton. The CEO, on behalf of council, threatened me with legal action. There were unusual and harshly toned letters from the CEO. It was not the kind of council I knew. Something was very, very wrong, and I could not quite put my finger on it. Needless to say, I kept going, and thankfully, with the many positive policies of the Labor government and my track record of delivery, that's what people voted for. As a result, people in Kiama will benefit from Labor slashing 20 per cent off student debt, introducing five per cent home deposits for first home buyers from 1 October, protecting penalty rates and providing cheaper medicines. We already know that Gilmore has the highest take-up of solar home batteries in New South Wales, which people in Kiama are benefiting from as they help drive down power bills and support local businesses and jobs. I gave Kiama council the benefit of the doubt after the federal election. I have always considered myself to be very fair, and I honestly thought things were better. So you can imagine my surprise when Mayor McDonald, all of a sudden and multiple times, again started to use council resources and ratepayer funds, so close to the Kiama by-election, to have a clear political whack at the state Labor government, not once, not twice, but three times—actually, I'm sure it's more by now. In doing so, he's also had a stab at the federal government. I've had enough, so today I'm airing my grievance, because people in Kiama do deserve better than a politically meddling Kiama council that often hasn't done the work to get projects ready to fund, that has lied to Kiama ratepayers or just hasn't told the whole truth, and that provides just about no recognition of federal or state funding. Well, that stops right here today. I'm setting the record straight because I can and I will. I say this to the mayor and deputy mayor of Kiama council: advocacy is all year round. Do it earlier and provide it to all levels of government MPs. It shouldn't be political. Make sure projects included are shovel-ready; otherwise, you're all hot air. And don't outright lie to Kiama ratepayers when federal and state funding has been provided or is available. Apply for available grants. Don't let them go begging, as is so often the case with Kiama council. Maybe try promoting and being thankful for projects that include federal and state funding, instead of just having a go at other levels of government. I really hoped the mayor, deputy mayor and CEO had learnt from their federal election shenanigans, but I was wrong. For the record, the federal and state governments have both provided significant disaster recovery funding and infrastructure betterment funding for Jamberoo Mountain Road. As to the Kiama Sports Complex, which we all want to happen, the federal government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure fund provided funding towards the master plan. I'm glad council has progressed the master plan and draft options are out with the community, but council has not adopted the final plan. The project is not shovel ready. I wish it were, because there are federal funding streams that Kiama council could apply for if it were ready to go. I have raised this with the federal minister and continue to provide advice and support for the dedicated and patient volunteers of the Kiama District Sports Association. Similarly, Kiama council's plan for Jamberoo Community Preschool—is it shovel ready? No, not at all. I agree it's a much-needed service, but Kiama council needs to play its part in order to get it off the ground. Kiama council, despite repeated attempts by me, has not addressed flooding issues at the current preschool site. It has not put in an application under the Disaster Ready Fund, nor does it even have a shovel-ready alternative site. So to see it appearing in some mayoral political promo video is, quite frankly, disingenuous. Then there are the exorbitant legal costs of Kiama council, paid for by ratepayers, which should be going into local community infrastructure, like lights at Mick Cronin Oval and at the Kiama Sports Complex. I don't know any other council that instigated a costly and unnecessary legal dispute with a local surf lifesaving club, like Kiama council did with Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club. Despite delivering $5.5 million for a stunning new clubhouse—an important community facility—I copped nothing but grief, disdain and some type of weird punishment from the Kiama council deputy mayor and CEO, and horrible toned letters from the Kiama council CEO. These are not typical actions of a local council, and you have to ask yourself why. Kiama council should really take a leaf out of Shoalhaven City Council's book, and I don't say that lightly, because Shoalhaven council has its challenges, too. But you certainly don't see Shoalhaven council exhibiting behaviour like the mayor of Kiama council is exhibiting, despite both being local government areas in the Kiama by-election. I've had enough. I call time on the behaviour coming from the mayor of Kiama council. I've really tried. I grieve that Kiama ratepayers are told the truth. Recently, I announced, from the Albanese Labor government, more federal funding for terrific local community projects: the Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club, Jamberoo Youth Hall, Gerringong & District Historical Society & Museum, Kiama Central Netball Club, Kiama Pipe Band, and Gerringong and Jamberoo public schools P&C associations. This builds on many other terrific local projects delivered under Labor, like headspace Kiama, upgrades at Gerringong Golf Club and the new Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club. We have a terrific opportunity to have a wonderful local advocate in Katelin McInerney, who I know will deliver for local people in the Kiama electorate, from West Nowra, Bomaderry, North Nowra, Shoalhaven Heads, Gerringong, Kiama, Jamberoo, Minnamurra and everywhere to the north, south and west in the Kiama state electorate. Katelin is a local mum. She wants her young son, William, to be able to go to school locally and use our upgraded hospitals under Labor and, like me, she wants all people to be able to live and work locally and to enjoy our most magnificent area. Together, we're fighting for people in Kiama, whether it's slashing 20 per cent off student debt, five per cent home deposits for first home buyers, cheaper home batteries that are slashing energy costs, Kiama headspace, upgraded schools and hospitals, the free Medicare urgent care clinic coming to Nowra or an upgraded Medicare mental health centre at Nowra. Labor is investing in local community infrastructure and roads, with free TAFE, the Jervis Bay flyover, the Nowra bypass and short-, medium- and longer term solutions for the Hampden Bridge at Kangaroo Valley. Katelin McInerney is a fighter and a strong local voice for Kiama. Only a Minns and Albanese Labor government, together, will truly deliver for people in Kiama.
Women's Health Week | Private Members' Business | House debates
I am really proud to stand up today to talk about some of the incredible women's health initiatives that the Albanese Labor government is backing in my electorate of Gilmore. The South-Eastern...
I am really proud to stand up today to talk about some of the incredible women's health initiatives that the Albanese Labor government is backing in my electorate of Gilmore. The South-Eastern Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic, located in Milton, is an essential health service that is changing the lives of women. Since the doors opened in September 2023, hundreds of women whose symptoms have been ignored for many years or even decades have gained a new sense of hope. I've spoken with women of all ages who have told me that for the first time their symptoms have been taken seriously by the wonderful Milton team, led by Dr Katie Macartney and specialist women's health nurse Susan Wilford. The team provides accessible specialist health support in a safe place. They take the time to really listen to and validate women. As a wife and mother of four, I understand how women can struggle with a range of health conditions. We are so busy with work and families that we often put ourselves last and just put up with the pain. As we kick off Women's Health Week, I encourage all Australian women to slow down and take the time to look after yourselves. Check your boobs, have that pap smear and talk to your health professional. Don't give up if you don't get the answer you're looking for straightaway. One woman aged in her 40s went to see the team at the south-eastern New South Wales clinic, and she was given fresh hope after living with pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, bowel changes and sleep disturbance for 30 years. She required surgery, and is now receiving ongoing care to assist with pain management, including pain reprocessing therapy, pelvic floor function, defecation dynamics training, and strategies to unwind the body and mind, such as yoga. She has returned to work, has a better relationship with her partner, and is feeling healthier and happier than she has for three decades. It's essential that women with endometriosis symptoms receive good support and a timely diagnosis—even better, that they can access that help close to home. Endometriosis and other pelvic issues can have a devastating impact on women's daily lives. They wait an average of seven years before diagnosis. I'm so pleased that as part of the Albanese Labor government's $792.9 million women's health package, 11 new endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics will open across the nation. I am also immensely proud that Australia's first Aboriginal-owned and midwifery-led Birthing on Country Centre of Excellence is now under construction in Nowra. The purpose-built hub will provide culturally safe and continuative midwifery care, including antenatal, birthing and postnatal support for Aboriginal women and their families. I've been working towards this facility alongside the amazing team at Waminda, the South-Coast women's Health and Wellbeing Aboriginal Corporation for almost a decade, and have always supported their vision to improve outcomes for local Indigenous women and children. I'm so proud to have delivered $22.5 million from the Albanese Labor government for construction of the state-of-the-art centre, which is expected to welcome its first baby in mid-2026. Waminda is a dynamic organisation, deeply embedded in our community, and its birthing on country centre will ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and families get the best possible maternity care for generations to come. We know that birthing on country leads to significantly better health outcomes for First Nations mothers and babies. It improves maternal and perinatal outcomes, including attending more antenatal visits, being less likely to have a premature birth and being more likely to exclusively breastfeed. The new facility will be a wonderful asset for not only women across the South Coast but also women right around Australia who seek to give birth on country, to whom its doors will be open. During Women's Health Week, I want to congratulate the dedicated team at Waminda and everyone involved in establishing what will be the most comprehensive Aboriginal led birthing-on-country service in the world. I want to express how proud I am to be part of the Albanese Labor government—the first majority-women government that is finally taking women's health seriously.