2024 State Budget
14 May 2024
I rise today to support this bill with a sense of pride and purpose as the newly elected member for Dunstan. The electorate of Dunstan is a close-knit community and it is also an outspoken community. The people of Dunstan are not afraid to say what is on their mind. I know this because I spent many months—if not years—doorknocking and, more importantly, listening to what the community has to say. For example, health care: the people of Dunstan I have spoken to recognise the Malinauskas Labor Government's broad complement of policies and investments in the healthcare sector. They know that every element of the government's health policies matter.
This is why I am so proud of a number of important initiatives in my electorate under the visionary leadership of Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister Chris Picton. The first is the establishment of a state-of-the-art ambulance station located on the corner of Magill Road and Portrush Road. The construction of this ambulance station signifies more than just bricks and mortar; it symbolises our dedication to ensuring swift and efficient emergency responses for those in need. It also recognises the importance of investing in the health and wellbeing of our constituents and the wider community.
No-one should ever have to endure prolonged wait times or insufficient medical attention during moments of crisis. This new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art resources and staffed by skilled professionals. This will bolster our capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies.
As we all know, emergency medical services are the lifeline of our community. The addition of this ambulance station will assist emergency staff in their tireless work, and I am excited that it will soon open. It also demonstrates the government's commitment to public safety and welfare. In moments of crisis, there are two things that can make all the difference between life and death: the timely arrival of medical assistance and the reassuring presence of paramedics.
The Malinauskas Labor government's investment in the Norwood Ambulance Station is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our constituents. It reaffirms our belief that every individual deserves access to emergency assistance when required. I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank our paramedics and emergency responders. These dedicated people work tirelessly, often in challenging conditions, to provide aid, comfort and support to those in need.
Secondly, I am thrilled that South Australia's first 24/7 pharmacy is located in the electorate of Dunstan. This is a fantastic new initiative by the Malinauskas government. It represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance access to essential healthcare services. This new service provides all-day access to medicines and health advice to relieve the pressure on our busy emergency departments.
Access to healthcare services is a fundamental right that every individual deserves, regardless of the time of day or night. The absence of a 24/7 chemist has left many in our community vulnerable. Many people have been forced to endure unnecessary delays and hardships in obtaining the medications they need to manage their health conditions. The introduction of a 24/7 chemist in Norwood has changed that. It offers a lifeline to those who need urgent medical assistance during the night or on weekends.
People no longer have to endure the anxiety and uncertainty of waiting until morning. Instead, they have peace of mind knowing that help is always at hand, that they can access the medications and healthcare advice they require. I am proud to be part of a government that prioritises investing in essential services such as health care. This investment not only improves the quality of life for our residents but it also strengthens the social and economic fabric of our community by creating new employment opportunities.
As an active MP, I love engaging with my community, where I am constantly looking for opportunities to be of assistance. I enjoy getting out and hearing firsthand what is going on in the community I represent. Because of this, I am confident that there will be many more initiatives in the electorate of Dunstan; for example, the improvement of traffic conditions, making our schools safer and strengthening the arts and businesses in the heart of our community. I have just begun my term as the member for Dunstan, and I will continue to work tirelessly for my community. I commend this bill to the house.