My grandparents have heart problems and the lack of accessible hospitals or clinics in our local suburbs makes it difficult for them to receive timely treatment. The journey to the nearest healthcare facility is often stressful, can exacerbate their condition, and cause undue anxiety for our family. Quick and efficient medical attention should be a given in a developed country like Australia.

Canberra, known for its sprawling suburbs and beautiful landscapes, unfortunately comes up short when it comes to healthcare accessibility. In certain areas, residents have to travel extensive distances to reach a healthcare facility. This travel becomes even more challenging for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic conditions. The current infrastructure puts undue pressure on families who have to arrange for transportation or face long wait times for medical emergencies.

Statistics show that in countries with decentralised healthcare facilities spread over urban and suburban areas, medical outcomes improve significantly. Australia prides itself on providing high-quality health services, yet local suburbs in Canberra are neglected in these developments. Investing in better accessibility can save lives, improve health outcomes, and alleviate the financial burden on families.

We call upon local and federal authorities to prioritise the establishment and expansion of hospital and clinic services within Canberra's suburbs. By introducing more healthcare centres, we're not just improving accessibility but also ensuring timely care and better health results for everyone in the community. It's imperative to address this urgent need and make healthcare a right, not a privilege.

Sign this petition to urge our policymakers to take immediate action to bring about the much-needed change in our local healthcare accessibility.