Multimillion dollar funding for Lifeline, Endometriosis and more in Federal Budget

Last night’s Federal Government budget announcement saw billions committed to the nation, but the lives of Darling Downs residents will be changed thanks to some specific budget promises. Details here.

Many Darling Downs residents are winners following the announcement of the 2022-23 budget last night, with two Downs businesses sharing in a combined $110.3 million commitment.

The Federal Government announced $58 million would be provided under the National Action Plan for Endometriosis to improve diagnosis and primary care support.

QENDO treasurer and Darling Downs co-ordinator Ash Webb said the move would change lives.

Ash Webb lives with Endometriosis, pictured with sons Spencer (left) and Fletcher. Sunday, March 13, 2022. Picture: Nev Madsen.

“When the funding was announced, it was a historic day,” she said.

“This funding will set up and guide endometriosis in Australia for generations to come.

“We acknowledge there is still so much to do, but this is a huge step in the right direction.

“I’m really looking forward to see the change in the community.”

Impacting one in nine Australian women, one of the Endometriosis initiatives will dedicate $25.2 million to allow women to access a new Medicare-funded MRI scan.

The Federal Government has also committed $81.2 million to creating a new Medicare item to support access to genetic testing when planning for pregnancy.

The test would determine the risk of passing on significant genetic conditions, including cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy.

Australia's Treasurer Josh Frydenberg arrives to speak to the media outside Parliament House in Canberra on March 29, 2022, ahead of his federal budget speech for the year 2022/23. (Photo by AFP)

Meanwhile, Lifeline Australia will receive a $52.3 million investment to continue its community services for the next four years.

“It is absolutely essential that we ensure our services have the resources they need to help all Australians who need us. In ensuring that, this contribution from the government will save lives,” Lifeline CEO Colin Seery said.

This funding is on top of the core annual $15.5 million funding delivered to the organisation.

First home buyers will also be given a leg up across the Downs, with 50,000 spots a year to be offered through the New Home Guarantee Scheme, a 50 per cent increase.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said doubling the size of the government’s scheme would help make home ownership a “reality for thousands more Australians”.

More than $49 million will also be delivered for an additional 15,000 subsidised Vocational Education and Training places.