The Albanese Government is delivering on its election commitment to the residents of Emerald and the surrounding region by improving access to a range of health services, with the expansion of the town’s allied health precinct.

The Government has provided $2.8 million to the Central Queensland, Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast Primary Health Networks to manage the new Central Highlands Allied Health Clinic.

The new clinic will be located beside and managed by the neighbouring Emerald GP Super Clinic. Upon completion, the twin-building facility will include 10 practice rooms, an expanded assessment room and a dedicated training facility.

These facilities will enable a range of allied health professionals to provide direct patient care and to collaborate with other practitioners caring for locals.

More than one in five residents across Emerald have at least one long term health condition that requires care from different health professionals.

Allied health includes services such as physiotherapy, psychology, dietetics, speech pathology, occupational therapy and audiology.

The construction of the new clinic is expected to be complete by late 2024.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Mark Butler:

“Expanding primary health care options for rural residents is an important part of the Government’s plans to strengthen and modernise our health care system.

“People in the Central Highlands region with ongoing health problems will have better access to the services they need as a result of the new allied health clinic.

“Our Government takes its election commitments seriously and we’re delivering for the people of Emerald and the wider community.”

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:

“The $2.8 million grant to expand this crucial care facility won’t just improve services for those in Emerald, but for the whole Central Highlands region. 

 “The Albanese Government will continue to invest in regional health services so that all Australians, no matter where they live, can access quality, affordable and safe health care services.

“We understand the importance of allied health care provided by GPs and other medical professionals. It’s vital that people can access the healthcare they