Melissa Price (Durack, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The WA Cook Labor government has failed to fulfil its promise to Tom Price. In 2021, the Pilbara community was promised $12.8 million for a new hospital. Three years on, this hardworking community has been let down. Unbelievably, the recent WA state budget has allocated a mere $77,000 for the new hospital for the next financial year. The current hospital is 57 years old and should be condemned. Even the mice and frogs have now taken up residency. Patients confined to their beds tell me that they've seen the rodents scurrying above their heads as they lie waiting for medical assistance. Staff and patients are subjected to out-of-date and dangerous equipment. But all credit is due to the amazing staff, who continue to deliver under these conditions.

Let's not forget that the Pilbara is the powerhouse of our nation and drives our Australian economy, contributing $11.2 billion in iron ore royalties in this year alone, and that the federal government provided WA Labor some $3 billion this year for state health. Clearly, it's not about money; it's all about priorities. With thestate government's $2.6 billion surplus, there is no excuse for ignoring Tom Price's critical need for adequate health care. So to the health minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson: please, Minister, do your job and stop attacking hardworking shire president Audra Smith, who is doing nothing but supporting her community. Together, Audra and I will continue to fight for this community.