The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with implementing a key recommendation of the re-opened Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry by appointing a Latrobe Health Advocate.
The Advocate will provide community-wide leadership to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the Latrobe Valley community.
The Advocate is vital to the development of the Latrobe Health Innovation Zone and will complement the work of the Latrobe Health Assembly by voicing concerns and suggestions of community members in negotiations and decisions about health improvements.
The Advocate will work with the community, government, industry, as well as the Latrobe Health Assembly, the Long-Term Health Study Ministerial Advisory Council and other local stakeholders.
The Government is seeking someone with a strong and respected connection to the Valley to take on this role for an initial appointment of up to three-years. The Advocate will report to the Minister for Health.
The position will be advertised in the local media and online and will remain open for four weeks.
The Advocate will be an independent voice for locals, who will work with businesses, health services, community organisations and all levels of Government to discuss and develop ideas that improve healthcare in the Valley.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“Appointing a Latrobe Health Advocate is a critical recommendation of the Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry and part of our ongoing support for families in the Valley.”
“The Advocate will promote partnerships that improve the health and wellbeing of people who live and work locally.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“I’m looking forward to working closely with the Advocate to continue promoting the interests and priorities of communities right across the Valley.”
“The Advocate will be central in advocating for system and policy changes to address local health and wellbeing needs and to create local responses and improvements to priority health issues.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020