At a time when Australia has been experiencing widespread and devastating flooding in multiple states, the Albanese Labor Government has chosen to rip funding from our crucial frontline workers.
The Coalition Government backed our essential first responders by providing $10 million over two years to charity organisation Fortem Australia, for essential mental health and wellbeing support for those assisting during natural disasters.
However, Labor’s first Budget tore $8 million in funding from the organisation, which means they are unable to open services in important regional locations like Ballina, Albury-Wodonga, Dubbo, Nowra, and Newcastle.
Labor’s blatant disregard for the wellbeing of our first responders needs immediate rectification. The Opposition is calling on Labor to urgently reverse this funding cut.
The Coalition supports our first responders, who perform such a vital role in the community, supporting vulnerable people in times of need.
First responders work in highly challenging and often dire conditions, they are regularly exposed to traumatic experiences, face long hours under constant pressure, and are required to make critical decisions with a moment’s notice.
Ripping $8 million in emergency personnel wellbeing and mental health program funding shows Labor isn’t interested in taking care of the mental health and wellbeing of our front-line personnel.
The Coalition Government funded Fortem – an experienced organisation – with $10 million to support the mental health and wellbeing of natural disaster responders following their successful delivery of a similar program by competitive tender after the Black Summer Bushfires.
The organisation needs the full funding to ensure successful delivery of a national program to provide psychological support, wellbeing activities and mental health literacy training specifically designed for first responders.
Only the Coalition will ensure strong support for our law enforcement agencies and emergency services personnel to keep Australians safe.
