The Queensland Government has announced it will build the State’s first regionally-based Health Sciences Academy to train the next generation of health workers as part of Budget 2025/26.
The Health Sciences Academy, which will be built in Rockhampton, will provide students in Years 10 to 12 with the opportunity to pursue their passion for healthcare through vocational education, training opportunities, and tertiary pathways.
This will enable aspiring doctors, nurses, paramedics, and allied health professionals to get a head start by gaining knowledge and skills in their chosen health career, while they complete their secondary schooling close to home, said Premier David Crisafulli.
“To secure the health workers for Central Queensland’s future, a new Health Sciences Academy will be built in Rockhampton, helping to fast-track young people into health careers,” the Premier said.
“We are determined to deliver the next generation of health professionals – including nurses, doctors and paramedics – that Central Queensland needs by developing their skills right here at home.”
The Budget also includes a $50 million investment in two new youth Step-Up, Step-Down services – with the first one to be delivered in Rockhampton – to support vulnerable young Queenslanders in need of assistance.
The Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan will also delivers more than $36 million to fund the new Cardiac Hybrid Theatre at the Rockhampton Hospital.
Premier Crisafulli said the record health Budget delivered a fresh start for Central Queensland.
“We are delivering a fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan to provide Central Queenslanders with easier access to health services with a new Step-Up Step-Down youth mental health service, a new cardiac hybrid theatre for the hospital and planning for the future redevelopment of the hospital,” Premier Crisafulli said.
Further information is available at www.qed.qld.gov.au/programs-initiatives/department/building-education/new-schools/planning-for-new-schools.
