Greens to move Senate Inquiry into hospital financing

Australian Greens health spokesperson, Senator Richard Di Natale, announced today that he will be moving for a Senate Inquiry into hospital financing.
 
“Australians have had enough of the shameful blame game over funding cuts to hospitals,” said Senator Di Natale.
 
“The community is confused about who is to blame for the recent cuts and that’s just how the state and federal governments like it. It means that they can keep pointing the finger somewhere else and take no responsibility for fixing the problem.
 
“But the blame game doesn’t help someone stuck on a waiting list at the Alfred Hospital, or a family in Colac who will no longer be able to take their child to the emergency department after hours.
 
“Enough is enough – it’s time to get to the bottom of this issue and prevent politicians from treating it like a political football in the future.
 
“I will move for a Senate Inquiry that will look at the responsibility of each level of government, the timing of the recent changes and the impact of the funding shortfall.

“The inquiry would also look at the new National Health Reform Agreement, given that it was heralded as the solution to the constant blame shifting in this area.
 
“We have to find a lasting solution because the public need to know who to hold accountable for this issue – it’s the only way to make sure that governments will make the level of investment required for our hospitals and our broader health system.”
 
Media contact: Andrew Blyberg 0457 901 600