Petition Increase funding for health services in the Ballarat region

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council that Ballarat and surrounding regional communities continue to experience growing demand for public health services due to population growth, an ageing population and increasing mental health needs. Timely access to emergency care, specialist services, elective surgery, community health and mental health services is essential to achieving equitable health outcomes for regional Victorians. There are concerns that increased demand has placed pressure on hospitals, community health providers and mental health services, resulting in longer waiting times and challenges in accessing appropriate care. Additional investment is needed to ensure regional communities receive high quality, accessible and sustainable healthcare.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to increase funding for Ballarat and surrounding regional health services, including hospitals, community health and mental health services, invest in additional healthcare infrastructure and workforce capacity, expand access to specialist and community-based mental health services, and provide annual public reporting on funding allocations, service capacity and key performance outcomes for the Ballarat region.