Busselton and Augusta patients to benefit from government funding

Busselton Medical Practice, Sunshine Medical Centre and Augusta Clinic will all benefit from over $300,000 in grant funding collectively, under the government’s Rural General Practice Grants program.

Member for Forrest Nola Marino said the funding will provide more opportunities for the practices. 

“This grant will enable the practices to expand and improve their facilities,” Mrs Marino said.

“Better facilities will allow more doctors, nurses and other health workers to get hands-on training in general practices in areas like Busselton and Augusta.

“The health workers will be able to attend to patients and also, when they are fully qualified, are more likely to decide to stay in the region or another rural community.”

Assistant Minister for Health, David Gillespie, said practices would match the amount of their grants to undertake their projects.

Dr Gillespie said the projects could range from building new rooms to renovating existing rooms and buying computing technology or medical equipment.

“Other grants will be used to create meeting rooms where patients can receive education about health conditions, such as diabetes, so they can take a more active role in managing their own health.

“The Government supports a strong primary care workforce that can meet Australia’s future healthcare needs.

“Improving access to doctors and other health professionals in rural and regional Australia is a priority for our long term national health plan.”