The Federal Government is committed to providing world-class health care that supports Cairns and Far North Queensland women at every stage of life.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said every Cairns and Far North Queensland mother wanted to give their children the best start to life.
He said the women’s health and wellbeing announcements made in the budget were designed to guarantee the essential services Cairns and Far North Queensland mothers rely on.
“The government is acting to support pregnant women by ensuring they will be able to access the whooping cough vaccine for free,” Mr Entsch said.
“The $39.5 million investment will mean the vaccine is added to the National Immunisation Program, guaranteeing its access, safety and availability.”
Mr Enstch said Cairns and Far North Queensland mothers would also benefit from $20.9m to improve the health of new families.
“This includes $5 million to develop a national digital baby book to ensure all newborns have access to a lifelong electronic health record,” he said.
“The government has also committed $3 million to deliver better information on healthy eating and physical activity for women during pregnancy.
“Furthermore, the government is providing funding to improve the long-term health of women who develop gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy.”