COLLABORATION: The Key to Building a Better Community for All

The Key to Building a Better Community for All

About six years ago, I saw firsthand the shortcomings of the proposed Rouse Hill Hospital plan — a $300 million investment that didn’t include an emergency department or maternity services, despite Riverstone’s rapid growth and shift toward young families.

Recognising this gap, our local business chamber raised the alarm with representatives at all levels of government. Michelle Rowland MP championed the cause from opposition, launching a campaign to secure an emergency department.

The need was undeniable, and community support quickly followed. After years of delay, the government finally committed to an emergency department — though real progress only came after the last election.

One of my first meetings as a newly elected local MP was with the Health Minister, Ryan Park. I welcomed the expanded $700 million commitment, which added 250 more beds and broader services, but I also raised the need for full maternity care. The Minister acknowledged the gap but warned budget pressures could cause delays.

That’s where collaboration made the difference. Michelle Rowland worked closely with both state and federal health ministers to secure the extra funding needed. Thanks to this partnership and strong community advocacy, Rouse Hill Hospital will now include full maternity services — delivering the kind of health care our growing community deserves.

It’s proof that when all levels of government work together, everyone wins.

The Rouse Hill Hospital campaign is just one example of how collaboration between the Minns State Labor Government and the Albanese Federal Labor Government is delivering real outcomes for the Riverstone Electorate.

For too long, the North West’s roads and infrastructure were neglected. The former Liberal-National governments held power for nearly a decade, but this region’s needs were consistently overlooked. Despite being one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, the road network couldn’t keep pace.

That’s now changing thanks to genuine collaboration and commitment. Together, we’re investing in long-overdue projects. Key examples include the Richmond Road upgrade between the M7 and Townson Road, the new Bandon Road corridor at Vineyard with $150 million in joint funding, and the $440 million upgrade of Garfield Road East — now in detailed design.

There’s more to do, but we’re finally heading in the right direction — building a better community for all.