Opinion & Perspectives
1 November, 2026
A message from Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
One of the biggest reasons I got into politics was healthcare. That passion comes from my own life experience. As a child, I had hearing difficulties and needed surgery. My family didn't have a lot of money, and without Medicare and our public health system, that operation simply wouldn't have been possible.
I've never forgotten that. It taught me just how important good healthcare is, and how much it matters to have access to the care you need when you need it.
No one should miss out on life-changing treatment because of their bank balance or where they live.
That's why I'm so passionate about improving healthcare in rural and regional communities. Your postcode should never determine the quality of care you receive.
It's also why I've fought so hard for upgrades at Ararat Hospital, and why I'm incredibly proud that our State Labor Government has delivered another major investment for our community.
Last week, I stood alongside the dedicated staff at Ararat Hospital to announce $7.9 million to expand the Urgent Care Centre through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
I've been advocating for this project for years because demand keeps growing, and the current facilities are no longer keeping pace with the needs of our community.
When someone you love needs urgent medical care, you don't want to be worrying about whether there's enough room, whether the service can cope, or whether they'll get seen in time. You want to know help is there when you need it.
This investment will help make that happen. It will increase capacity, improve patient flow, and make sure more people can get quality care sooner and closer to home.
It will also strengthen healthcare across the Grampians. When Ararat Hospital is stronger, the whole region is stronger.
This funding builds on more than $10 million already invested by the Labor Government in Ararat Hospital, including expanded operating theatres, upgraded radiology and pathology services, a new Practical Laboratory for medical students, and modern medical equipment.
But this isn't just about buildings and equipment. It's about giving local families confidence that quality healthcare is available close to home. And it's about backing the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
I'm incredibly proud to have worked alongside Nick Bush and the team at Ararat Hospital to secure this funding.
It's not an election commitment - it's happening now.
Because every family deserves access to great healthcare, no matter where they live.