Coalition commitment to Gap Park Masterplan welcomed
AMA (NSW) welcomes the Coalition’s pledge over the weekend to commit funding towards the Gap Park Masterplan, if elected, after it became apparent last week that the Federal Government had not set aside any funds for the project.
Australian Medical Association (NSW) President, Dr Michael Steiner said he was disappointed at the State and Federal Governments’ failure to commit the funding needed by Woollahra Council to finance the improvements identified in the masterplan.
“I am pleased the Coalition has recognised the importance of the Gap Park Masterplan. This is a practical plan that proposes a series of self-harm minimisation strategies, including infrastructure modifications such as purpose built fencing.
“The project aims to de-stigmatise a known suicide hotspot in NSW and reduce the national suicide toll. This is a life and death issue and sadly vulnerable Australians are being let down by the Governments’ inaction on this. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians under the age of 44.
“The mental health sector continues to remain underfunded at both a State and Federal level and needs a larger commitment. The Gap Park Masterplan has been developed by Woollahra Municipal Council in consultation with residents, mental health providers and local police. It aims to reduce the number of suicides and the devastating impact that suicide has on families and members of the Australian community as a whole”.
AMA (NSW) calls on the State and Federal Governments to reconsider funding for the improvements cited in the Gap Park Masterplan to help people choose life over death,” Dr Steiner said.
Media Contact: Tanzeem Parkar 0419 402 955
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