The Nationals WA have welcomed the Shire of Northampton’s announcement of a one year trial to deliver a reliable, locally based healthcare service for the community, but called on the State and Federal Governments to do more to support regional healthcare.
Shadow Minister for Local Government and Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, praised the Shire’s advocacy and initiative in partnering with Panaceum Group to deliver the new service.
“This trial is fantastic news for Northampton and the surrounding region,” Ms Warr said.
“A five-day-a-week health service will give local residents confidence they can access quality care close to home, without the need to travel long distances to Geraldton.”
Ms Warr said the Shire’s leadership showed what local governments can achieve but also exposed how much they are being forced to take on due to neglect from State and Federal Governments.
“The Shire of Northampton should be proud of their accomplishment, securing this important service for their community in the absence of political leadership,” Ms Warr said.
“Local governments across regional WA continue to shoulder the financial burden of attracting GPs and other essential services, often providing housing, clinic spaces, or transport allowances to help secure these services with little Government support.
“Just two weeks ago, I met with the Health Minister to raise concerns about the growing GP shortage across regional WA, including Northampton, and I’ll continue to call for additional support to better support regional communities with their healthcare needs.
“And despite the Prime Minister campaigning with a Medicare card in his hand promising equitable and affordable health access for all, the Federal Government remains sorely missing in action,” she said.
Member for the Legislative Council and Northampton resident, Rob Horstman MLC, also welcomed today’s announcement and encouraged residents to make use of the new service.
“As someone who’s lived in Northampton and served on council, I know just how hard the Shire has fought for this outcome,” Mr Horstman said.
“This new service is a major win for the community and a practical solution to years of uncertainty about local healthcare access.
“I encourage residents to get behind it. Book appointments, use the service, and show there’s strong demand so it can continue beyond the 12-month trial.”
Mr Horstman said while the outcome was positive, the need for the Shire to “go it alone” in a State as prosperous as WA was concerning.
“While the State Government boasts of a $2.5 billion budget surplus, it shouldn’t fall on local governments to dip into their own limited funds to deliver basic healthcare services.
“While Labor is spending hundreds of millions on new racetracks and vanity projects in Perth, regional communities like Northampton are forced to pick up the tab to access a GP.”
Northampton Pharmacy owner, Joanne Loftus said the announcement was a great outcome for the community.
“Having access to high-quality healthcare, close to home, is crucial for timely treatment, improved health outcomes, and reduced stress,” Ms Loftus said.
“I’m both excited and relieved at the news that our town will be able to have consistent healthcare once again, especially for our elderly population.”