The Andrews Labor Government is backing our hospitals with additional funding following an unprecedented flu season.

Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos today announced a $200 million flu package so that our hospitals and hardworking doctors and nurses can continue to treat a record number of patients.

The flu season has put enormous strain on our hospitals, with more than 65,000 laboratory-confirmed cases including more than 18,500 children and contributing to 150 deaths.

It’s meant hospitals right around the state have treated far more patients than anticipated, rising to this sustained challenge and delivering world-class care to patients.

While the Victorian Labor Government backs our nurses and doctors, our hospitals are worse off because of the Commonwealth’s retrospective cuts to health.

The Labor Government’s boost will mean our busy emergency departments can continue to treat a record number of patients – and remedy the unprecedented demand they’ve dealt with over the past 12 months.

This year’s Victorian Budget delivered a massive $2.5 billion boost to the Victorian health system meaning hospitals are receiving $12.2 billion this year.

The Labor Government is also delivering on its $3.8 billion pipeline of health infrastructure projects to ensure patients get the very best care regardless of where they live.

Despite a groundswell of anger from the states and territories, Canberra is refusing to fix a $305 million clawback. Our hospitals have delivered these services, but the Federal Liberals are refusing to pay their fair share of the bill.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos

“We’ve seen an unprecedented flu season that came early and hit hard, putting enormous strain on our hospitals.”

“We’re taking action so they can continue to provide Victorians the world-class care they need, when they need it most.”

“Our dedicated nurses and doctors have done a remarkable job in the face of record demand and Commonwealth cuts. We’re standing with them with the funding they need to keep providing the world-class treatment that Victorians deserve.”