The Albanese Government and the Crisafulli Government will fund the establishment of a new Academy for Health Sciences in Rockhampton.
The Academy will help to fast track high-achieving local students into careers as doctors, nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals.
This is an investment to strengthen Medicare and boost the pipeline of health workers in regional Queensland.
The Academy will cater for students from Years 10 to 12 and connect them to professionals in health sciences and research.
The Albanese Government will support the establishment of the Academy through a $80 million investment, towards the Crisafulli Government's existing commitment to deliver this key regional project.
The Crisafulli Government will seek to establish a direct partnership with Central Queensland University.
This will also allow students to gain credit for university health science degrees while still at school, and follow their passion for health sciences without needing to move away from their families or communities.
The recent record number of graduates to progress through Queensland's Regional Medical Pathway program demonstrates the strong pipeline of home-grown future health professionals outside metropolitan areas.
The Rockhampton campus will be the first regionally-based Queensland Academy, and demonstrates the Crisafulli and Albanese Government's commitment to restoring and strengthening regional health services.
The details of the Academy's implementation are under consideration by the Crisafulli Government, with the final location to be determined through further planning and consultation.
Comment attributable to Minister Clare:
"This is an important investment which will support young people in Central Queensland to become nurses, paramedics and doctors.
"This is all about building a better and fairer education system and strengthening the pipeline of key workers that regional Queensland needs."
Comment attributable to Minister King:
"The Albanese Government is delivering the infrastructure and facilities our communities need.
"This health sciences academy is part of our landmark investment in Central Queensland, alongside the $7.2 billion being invested by the Australian Government in the Bruce Highway safety upgrade."
Comment attributable to Minister Langbroek:
"This funding contribution from the Albanese Government is incredibly significant, coupled with the planning and consultation work we've already done, this election commitment is well underway.
"The Academy will help students across Central Queensland who are interested in a health career to connect with professionals in health sciences and research.
"I look forward to continuing to work with State Health Minister Tim Nicholls and our local MPs to fulfill our commitment to deliver this vital project for Central Queensland."
