Question Time AU

General Debate

Spence Electorate: Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub, Mental Health, Medicare

House of Representatives · Tuesday 8 September 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Matt Burnell addressed the House regarding health and wellbeing investments in the Spence electorate. He highlighted the establishment of the Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub in Elizabeth, which supports local veterans and their families. Burnell also detailed improvements in mental health services, including the Northern Adelaide Kids Hub and the Medicare Mental Health Centre, which provide early intervention and free care. He noted a significant increase in fully bulk-billing GP practices and the opening of an urgent care clinic in Elizabeth. Additionally, he reported on savings achieved through cheaper prescriptions and the expansion of headspace services in Gawler and Edinburgh.

Outcome

The member concluded the speech and thanked the House.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Burnell argued that the government is improving access to essential services in northern Adelaide by investing in local health infrastructure. Burnell stated that the Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub in Elizabeth has provided valuable support and connection for veterans and their families since its opening. Burnell emphasized the importance of early mental health intervention, citing the Northern Adelaide Kids Hub and the Medicare Mental Health Centre as key resources that remove barriers such as referrals and costs. Burnell reported that the number of fully bulk-billing GP practices in the region had increased from 19 to 32, representing a 68 per cent rise in accessibility. Burnell also highlighted the Elizabeth Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, which has handled over 37,000 presentations, reducing pressure on emergency departments. Burnell noted that cheaper prescriptions have saved residents more than $21 million, helping households manage essential costs. Finally, Burnell mentioned the establishment of a second headspace centre in Gawler and the upgrade of the Edinburgh centre to headspace Plus, alongside Sonder's Safe Haven Salisbury, to provide comprehensive support across the electorate.