WILLIAMSON WELCOMES BUDGET WINS FOR CLARENCE & RICHMOND VALLEY COMMUNITIES

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has welcomed key funding announcements in today’s State Budget, including an investment of almost $17 million next financial year for the continued redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital, as well as funding to upgrade Casino High School to improve facilities and programs for high potential and gifted students. 

Mr Williamson said the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment, a $263.8 million project initiated by the former NSW Nationals in Government, remains on track, with the Budget committing more than $200 million over the next four years and a targeted completion date of 2030.

"This significant funding for the continued delivery of the redevelopment project brings the community one step closer to improved health care,” Mr Williamson said.

“It’s a project that I have worked closely on with the Minister for Health to ensure it continues, and this is the next practical step in seeing it come to fruition.

"We’ll see $16.952 million invested over the next 12 months, with the majority of construction funding coming in the later stages of the project. This is about delivering modern, fit-for-purpose health infrastructure that supports better patient outcomes, timely access to care, and improved staff conditions."

The redevelopment will include an expanded emergency department, additional beds and clinical services, and a reconfiguration of services to improve workflow and patient access.

In addition to the health investment, Mr Williamson also welcomed funding for Casino High School as part of the NSW Government’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) School Partner Program, which aims to support talent development through upgraded facilities and specialised learning environments.

"This is a great opportunity for Casino High School and its students," Mr Williamson said.

"The upgrades will help unlock potential in high-performing students by providing the facilities and programs they need to thrive."

Facility improvements may include upgraded science labs, creative arts spaces, sporting facilities, and specialist design and technology rooms, tailored to the needs of gifted and high-potential students.

“I welcome this funding and the recognition that regional students deserve the same opportunities to excel as those in metropolitan areas.”

Mr Williamson said he would continue to advocate strongly for equitable investment in his electorate to ensure local communities receive the support they need and deserve.

PHOTO: Richie is pictured outside Grafton Base Hospital with nurses L-R: Dennis Merenda, Paula Duff (Secretary, Clarence Valley Branch, NSW Nurses & Midwives Association), Jason Connors & Darren Demmery (President, Clarence Valley Branch, NSW Nurses & Midwives Association)