Gold Coast Breaks Ground on Mental Health Rehab Unit

We promised to build a mental health facility on the Gold Coast and we are delivering.

In April, work started on a new 40-bed secure mental health rehabilitation unit to be based at the Gold Coast University Hospital - the first of its kind in the city.

Staffed by a dedicated team of mental health experts, the unit will help people with severe and complex mental health disorders in a safe and secure setting.

Designed in partnership with people who have a lived experience with mental health care, it will mean people can stay for up to 12 months as they are provided dedicated support.

Rental Law Reforms

The Palaszczuk Government has passed legislation to limit rent increases to once a year to give a fairer go to Queensland renters.

These amendments will bring Queensland into line with other Australian jurisdictions and balance the rights and interests of Queenslanders who rent, and property owners and investors to maintain rental supply.

The annual limit on rent increases will apply to all new and existing tenancies from 1 July 2023 onwards.

One-Year Anniversary - Air Conditioning our State Schools

Last month we celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Palaszczuk Government delivering on our commitment to provide air conditioning for every classroom, library and staff room in every Queensland State School.

Thank you to all of you that signed my petition back in 2020.

101 spaces in our local schools have had air conditioning installed, ahead of schedule.

This funding initiative includes the ongoing maintenance and replacement of new and existing air conditioning systems into the future.

This is one part of our record investment in education across Queensland.

For more information about what we’ve been doing for our local schools, click the link below.

Expanding Containers for Change Scheme

We’re expanding Containers for Change to include glass wine and spirit bottles just in time for the festive season.

Last year, we asked you: do you want to see this scheme expand.

And overwhelmingly you said yes!

With more than six billion containers returning $630 million in refunds, it’s clear to see why 98 per cent of people backed expanding the program.

It means more money back in the pockets of Queensland, charities and sports clubs and better recycling.

Meet our Youth Member for Gaven

Caught up with Will - our 2023 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament Member for Gaven.

In April, 93 youth MPs across Queensland were sworn in, and over the coming year they will learn about how laws are made and the role of a parliamentarian.

Previous cohorts have drafted bills that banned revenge porn, banned single use plastics, provided period products in all state high schools - things our Palaszczuk Government has gone on to implement.

I look forward to hearing about the 2023 proposed reform.

If you know a young person between 16-25 that is interested in improving our community, they may be interested in applying for my 2023 Gaven Youth Advisory Council, please see the link below for details on how to apply.