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Health


LGBTI Flags

Minister For Health – LGBTIQA+

The Department of Health has established a children and young people advisory group to strengthen engagement with young Tasmanians.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Dec 2023


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Minister For Health – Staff Training

One of the reasons that his offending went unaddressed for so long was broadly a lack of understanding about reporting obligations.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Dec 2023


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

Minister For Health – Staff Investigations

Earlier, we talked about the three former health service employees subject to findings from the commission of inquiry report.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Dec 2023


Economy, Finance, Calculator, Pen and Graph

Minister For Health – Budget

You have rattled off a number of initiatives, but you're resistant to giving it to us in a recommendation by recommendation context.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Dec 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Minister For Health – Health in Youth Detention

Understandably, the commission delivered this in a very short term window to be delivered before July 2024.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Dec 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ambulance Ramping Inquiry Releases Shocking New Evidence and Statistics

Newly published evidence provided to the Parliamentary Inquiry into ambulance ramping has shown how ramping has skyrocketed under the Liberals

Vica Bayley MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Dec 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

TasWater – BMAA Testing

A number of Tasmanian scientists are raising concerns about BMAA and TasWater's position on not testing it and its potential presence in the water.

Vica Bayley MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  21 Nov 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ramping Spin More Desperate by the Day

The Liberals are getting desperate, with their latest misinformation attempt about the true state of Tasmania’s ambulance ramping crisis.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Nov 2023


Hospital Bed

Health In Decline for Another Year Under Liberals

Tasmania’s health system has fallen further into decline under the Liberals, according to the 2023 Department of Health Annual Report.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Oct 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Harrowing Submissions to Ambulance Ramping Inquiry Published

Dozens of Tasmanians have shared their harrowing stories with the Parliamentary Inquiry into ambulance ramping

Vica Bayley MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Oct 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Shocking Correction to Ramping Wait Times Highlights Crisis

A government correction to previously relesaed ambulance ramping figures shows the situation is far worse than previously known

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Oct 2023


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Select Committee on Reproductive, Maternal and Paediatric Health and Perinatal Mental Health Services in Tasmania

It is a historical and current fact that women's health is not resourced, researched or prioritised in the way that men's health is.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Oct 2023


Doctor with Patient

Government Must Save Greenpoint Medical

Minister for Health, Guy Barnett, must immediately intervene and do everything he can to save Greenpoint Medical Centre

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Sep 2023


Legislation, Clause Being Highlighted

Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill 2023

We are again leading in this area on the back of being the first state to introduce presumptive cancer legislation in 2012.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Sep 2023


Hospital Bed

North West Maternity (Employment Entitlements) Bill 2023

It has been such a long and painful process for the people who live in the north west.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Sep 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

Cygnet Family Practice - Urgent and After-Hours Service

The Cygnet Family Practice is the first practice in Australia to bring in this urgent after-hours service.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  7 Sep 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Greens’ Move for Ambulance Ramping Inquiry Successful

The Tasmanian Greens are pleased to have received the support of the House of Assembly to establish a Parliamentary Inquiry into ambulance ramping

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Aug 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Greens Release Ramping Inquiry Terms of Reference

Today the Tasmanian Greens have tabled the motion we will move in Parliament to establish a Parliamentary Inquiry into ambulance ramping

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Aug 2023


Ambulance, Interior

Greens Announce Move for Ambulance Ramping Inquiry

Enough is enough. The Greens cannot stand by as the Liberals continue to normalise their increasingly dangerous hospital mismanagement.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Aug 2023


Ambulance, Interior

Immediate Plan Needed for Ramping

New Health Minister Guy Barnett must immediately commit to a real plan to tackle both the underlying causes & the dangerous effects of ambulance ramping

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Aug 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

New Approach Needed from New Health Minister

Tasmania has a new Minister taking over the Health portfolio, but this will be a meaningless step unless accompanied by a new approach

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Jul 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Rockliff Dishonest on Health

The Premier claims the health system "is in the best place its been for a long time", but the government's own data says otherwise

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jul 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

Rockliff’s Reset Just More Hollow Words

Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s so-called ‘reset’ on ‘back-to-basics’ issues is just more hollow words

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jul 2023


Ambulance, Interior

Coronial Findings Demand Urgent Action on Paramedic Mental Health

The Coroner has effectively put the Rockliff Government on notice over the mental health of paramedics.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Jul 2023


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Rockliff Ignores St Helen's Closure Impact

The critically important St Helen’s mental health facility will close its doors tomorrow, but Jeremy Rockliff hasn’t lifted a finger to keep it open

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Jun 2023


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Estimates Reply – Rockliff

However, it does mean that we are missing the information we asked for in the committee and we only have one of the years of data.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  20 Jun 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

Estimates Reply – Rockliff

As the day wore on, he was tilting across the table at a 45-degree angle into his Health secretary and looked like a person who did not want to be there.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  20 Jun 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Liberals Shamefully Mislead on Ramping

Ambulance ramping requires urgent action, but the Liberals are apparently more interested in trying to mislead the community

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Jun 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

Health – Jack Jumper Desensitisation Program

I have a different question now, it is about people in the north and particularly the north-west and the lethality of jack jumper bites for some people.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Jun 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Health – Royal Flying Doctor Service

In that period, it won't be useable at night, which means the Royal Flying Doctor Service won't be able to land with patients.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  5 Jun 2023


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Not Too Late to Act on St Helen’s

It’s not too late for the Premier to finally act to ensure all the crucial, life-saving services provided by the St Helen’s mental health facility will continue

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Jun 2023


Green Economics

Budget Reply

Our wild places area a treasure like nowhere else on Earth, not the plaything of private companies.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2023


Hospital Bed

St Helens Private Hospital - Effect of Closure

Yesterday you released the Government's master plan for the redevelopment of St Johns Park. It will not be completed until 2025 at the earliest.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2023


Ambulance, Interior

Rockliff Refuses to Reverse Covid Repayment Demand

All staff working at Ambulance Tasmania’s State Operation Centre got a letter last night, demanding they pay back a $1000 Covid appreciation payment.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jun 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health

Year after year has been serial underinvestment under the Liberals and we see the result of it.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  31 May 2023


Doctor with Patient

Greens Release Plan for Healthy Essential Workforce

For a healthy, inclusive lutruwita/Tasmania, that genuinely leaves no one behind, we need a strong, well-resourced and valued public service.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2023


Coronavirus

Greens’ Clean Air Package to Keep Tasmanians Safe

We recognise it’s the core business of government to keep people safe and we prioritise this responsibility in our Alternative Budget.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2023


Green Economics

Alternative Budget 2023-24

Our Alternative Budget lays out an evidence-backed plan for real climate action and the restoration of Nature, giving hope for the future.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Policies  |  31 May 2023


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Retaining Essential Workers

We need a plan to attract and retain the essential workers who hold the fabric of our society together.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Policies  |  31 May 2023


Coronavirus

Hospitals in Chaos, Rockliff Refuses to Stop Covid Spread

Today Jeremy Rockliff diminished even the AMA’s concerns for health workers getting Covid for the third time, risking long-term debilitating health effects.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 May 2023


Hospital Bed

Liberals’ Budget Fails on Health Again

Michael Ferguson is trying to pretend he’s handed down a Budget to tackle the health crisis, but Tasmanians will see straight through his attempts at spin

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 May 2023


Hospital Bed

Health

The minister describes the closure of St Helens as 'disappointing'. Well let us call it for what it is: it is a calamity; it is dangerous.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 May 2023


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Premier Must Act on St Helen's

Jeremy Rockliff has moved heaven & earth to to build a billion-dollar stadium at Macquarie Point but he won’t lift a finger to save vital mental health services

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  23 May 2023


Hobart Private Hospital

Time to End Reliance on Private Health

The Rockliff Government must end its reliance on the private health system to provide essential health services for Tasmanians,

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 May 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Big Covid Increase Demands Action

The Rockliff Government must pull its long-buried head from the sand, and put in place measures that will protect the community from preventable Covid harm.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 May 2023


Coronavirus

Public Schools Should Lead on Masks as Covid Surges

The Friends’ School’s decision to recommend students wear masks is sensible, given the current surge in Covid Australia-wide, including Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 May 2023


Hospital Bed

St Helens Private Hospital - Effect of Closure

On 2 May 2023, Healthscope announced the impending closure of the St Helens Private Hospital, with operations ceasing in June 2023.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  10 May 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Tasmanian Health System

I now want to reflect on the tragedies that are occurring in the hospitals and the evidence for that decline.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  10 May 2023


Hospital Bed

St Helens Private Hospital - Effect of Closure

Healthscope's closure of its 39-bed mental health facility in Hobart, including the state's only 8-bed mother and baby unit is a disaster.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  10 May 2023


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Liberals Refuse to Act on St Helens Closure

The Premier has refused to look into purchasing the St Helens building or taking over the services it operates

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 May 2023


Doctor with Patient

Government Should Consider St Helen's Site Purchase

​​​​​​​The closure of St Helen’s Private Hospital is a serious issue, & it's the government’s job to ensure all the hospital’s services continue uninterrupted

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 May 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Overdue Return of Masks in RHH

The RHH's decision to reinstate mask mandates is welcome, but also demonstrates the short-sighted nature of the decision to remove masks previously

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Apr 2023


House of Assembly, Tasmania

E-Cigarettes

We are concerned where we have got to in Australia and the fact is that with the increase in vaping and the creation of the black market.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 Mar 2023


Hospital Bed

Health

I want to call out the Premier for his continual gaslighting about the true state of Tasmania's health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  22 Mar 2023


Pills

Ellis Must Allow Pill Testing in Tasmania

Police Minister Felix Ellis should listen to the growing demands for pill testing to be implemented in Tasmania, and act to allow this life-saving measure

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2023


Hospital Bed

Matter of Public Importance - Health

He never comes up with a vision and a budget and a plan that is in scale with what is happening.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Feb 2023


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Who Does Jeremy Rockliff Govern For?

Who is Premier Rockliff governing for? It’s not battlers, or everyday Tasmanians. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Feb 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Labor Two-Faced on Drug Reform

Labor is trying to have its cake and eat it too on personal drug use reform, speaking the language of harm reduction but refusing to support reform

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Feb 2023


Doctor with Patient

Hardline Drug Policy Wrong Approach

Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s response to proposed drug law reform in Queensland is deeply disappointing.  

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Feb 2023


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Rockliff Must Act on Medical Misconduct Report

Revelations of the medical registration system's repeated failures to protect patients from sexual abuse and misconduct are appalling and demand action.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Feb 2023


Doctor with Patient

Reproductive Health Report Demands Action

Today’s report released by Women’s Health Tasmania highlights the need for improved access to safe and affordable termination services in Tasmania. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Feb 2023


Doctor with Face Mask

Crisis in Health Continues to Deepen

New data about healthcare in Tasmania shows a system that continues to deteriorate, and highlights the need for an ambitious response from the Government.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Feb 2023


Drugs

CLC Report Should Prompt Informed Debate on Drug Law Reform

The release of a new report into the costs of criminalising drugs in Tasmania is welcome and highlights why it's time for a community conversation about drugs

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Jan 2023


Coronavirus

The Covid Kraken variant has arrived, Where is the Health Minister?

A dangerous new, highly immune-evasive Covid variant is becoming dominant globally, including in Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jan 2023


AFL

Who Actually Cares What Jeff Kennett Thinks?

While the out of touch suited-up blokes might want this unneeded, billion dollar stadium, the majority of Tasmanians don’t.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Dec 2022


Coronavirus

12 Months of Uncontrolled Covid, Time for a New Health Minister

It’s time Tasmania had a new Health Minister. One who will put the health of Tasmanians first.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Dec 2022


Coronavirus

Children at Covid Risk, as Liberals Plan to Axe Testing

Unvaccinated Tasmanian children under five years are at higher risk of serious Covid complications, but have been abandoned by the Rockliff Government. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Dec 2022


Coronavirus

Covid Impacts Ignored on International Day of People ​​​​​​​with Disability

On International Day of People with Disability, spare a thought for disabled and vulnerable Tasmanians who are more socially isolated due to Covid risk.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Dec 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ramping Tragedy at RHH

The devastating consequences of increased ambulance ramping have been highlighted once again.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Nov 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Dismisses Concerns About Covid Positive Employees Returning to Work

Not content with his successful national cabinet push r to remove Covid isolation rules, Premier Rockliff is dismissing the effect of his decision

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Nov 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

ACEM Emergency Report Terrible – EDs Even Worse Now

A new report shows Tasmania recording the worst results in the nation for emergency department performance

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Nov 2022


Coronavirus

Coral Princess Blight on Burnie

The docking of the Coral Princess in Burnie without mandated Covid safeguards is the latest in a string of reckless decisions by the Rockliff government

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Nov 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Must Act to Limit COVID-19 Spread

With Covid case numbers growing and new variants now identified in Tasmania, we are entering a concerning new phase of the pandemic

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Nov 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health Failures Deepen - Again

​​​​​​​The Department of Health’s Annual Report highlights the appalling continued decline of Tasmania’s health system under the Liberals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Oct 2022


Fish Farm, Macquarie Harbor

Salmon Feed a Health and Marine Danger

Reports animal feed additive Ethoxyquin - banned in Europe because of dangers for human health & aquatic life - has been found in Tasmanian salmon are alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Oct 2022


Hospital Bed

LGH Another Devastating Example of Liberals' Health Failure

The latest situation at the LGH is another shocking example of the Liberals' failures on health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Oct 2022


Cruise Ship

Cruise Ships Latest Liberal Covid Failure

The Liberals’ refusal to mandate safeguards against the high risk of Covid outbreaks from returning cruise ships is the latest example of their reckless public

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Oct 2022


AFL

Labor Crab-Walk Away from Stadium Opposition

After Federal Labor Treasurer Jim Chalmers signaled he’s open to funding the massive mega-stadium, today Labor are proposing a referendum on the Liberals’ plan.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Oct 2022


Hospital Bed

Health

It seems, with respect, that the Premier is being very weak on the things that matter the most.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Oct 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Government Betrayal of Tasmanians with Disability

The Premier has made it clear to Tasmanians with disability his government is prepared to abandon them to Covid following the removal of mandatory isolation

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Oct 2022


Coronavirus

Premier at Odds With Worksafe Covid Guidance

Correspondence from WorkSafe Tasmania makes it clear the Covid pandemic, and responsibilities for businesses, are not over

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Oct 2022


Coronavirus

Anti-Science Liberals Compare Covid to Gastro

It is reckless for the Liberals to continue to downplay people’s Covid health risks by likening the impacts to recovering from gastro.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Oct 2022


Hospital Bed

No Excuses for Record Emergency Department Pain

The Rockliff Government has chalked up yet another terrible milestone in health

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Oct 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff’s Heartless Covid Betrayal

The Premier’s ardent support of National Cabinet’s decision to remove mandatory Covid isolation is a betrayal of Tasmanians.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Sep 2022


Legislation, Clause Being Highlighted

Justice Miscellaneous (Advance Care Directives) Bill 2022

Advocates have called for this for a very long time. It was very widely discussed around and as supporting the push for voluntary assisted dying.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 Sep 2022


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Support for Pokies Harm Minimisation, For Now

The Greens are pleased an amended motion calling on all parties and MPs to support card-based pokies harm reduction measures was agreed to in Parliament today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Sep 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

What Happened to Rockliff’s Government of Heart?

The Premier continues to insist on his plan to build an unnecessary $750 million plus football stadium – despite massive community backlash.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Sep 2022


AFL

Stadium Plan Insulting to Tasmanians in Need

he secretly decided mega-million dollar stadium plan for Macquarie Point is an insult to every Tasmanian who can’t afford their rent or is living in a tent.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Sep 2022


Hospital Bed

Rockliff Painfully Out of Touch on Surgeries

Jeremy Rockliff’s attempt to diminish the extent of his government’s failure to deliver elective surgery shows how out of touch he has become

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Sep 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health System

We have an intolerable pressure now on all parts of the hospital system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2022


Coronavirus

COVID-19 - Shortening Isolation Period

The Victorian and Western Australian chief health officers have both raised the alarm about shortening the COVID 19 isolation period.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2022


Drugs

Rockliff Should End the Liberal War on Drugs

The Liberals’ war on drugs mentality is a manifest failure. What is required is a health-based response, informed by expert advice and evidence, not ideology.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Aug 2022


Ambulance, Interior

Ambulance Response Times Out of Control

The response times for ambulances in Tasmania continue to spiral further out of control, with the latest HealthStats revealing a distressing new milestone.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Aug 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health

Here we are nearly 18 months later and there is no change and in fact the wheels are falling off. They are falling off in hospitals and in Ambulance Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Aug 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Where are Labor as Tasmania is in Crisis?

The role of an opposition is to hold government to account on critical matters of public interest. That is not the case in Tasmania’s Parliament.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Aug 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Public Health System

We really hear the pain of doctors, nurses, midwives and paramedics and what frustrates us so much is that the Government has things it can do.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Aug 2022


Law Books

Health Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2022

We were the first state in Australia and we led the charge on the real-time monitoring of prescription medicines.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  16 Aug 2022


Ambulance, Interior

Ambulance Ramping

News that a woman died at the Launceston General Hospital after being ramped for nine hours was tragic but, sadly, not surprising.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  16 Aug 2022


Ambulance, Interior

How Many Tasmanians are Dying While Ramped?

It’s unclear from the Premier’s answer today whether Tasmania collects any data whatsoever about the welfare of ramped patients.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Aug 2022


Coronavirus

Greens Table Petition to Reinstate Masks in Medical Settings

On behalf of the Greens, in Parliament today I was pleased to table a petition signed by 961 Tasmanians calling for the reintroduction of masking requirements.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Aug 2022


Coronavirus

Covid Crisis as Hospitalisations Treble

Yesterday the number of Covid hospitalisations reached a new peak of 184 – more than three times higher than the highest ever peak of 58 in April.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jul 2022


Medicinal Cannabis

Archer’s Cold War Cannabis Response Outdated

Tasmanians overwhelmingly want to decriminalise the personal use of marihuana, and Minister Archer’s views are way behind the community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

National Cabinet Needs Low-Covid Strategy

The ripple effect of a single person’s infection on their absence in the workplace or the loss of a hospital bed is having damaging effects in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Health and Aged Care Facilities Hit as Covid Hospitalisations Hit Record Number 

Today, Tasmania has also recorded 100 people in hospital who have Covid, as new subvariants spread rapidly in the community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Must Act as Hospitals are Struck by Covid

Predictably, Tasmanians hospitals are struggling as the current Covid wave continues.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Must Follow ATAGI and AHPPC Advice, as Tasmania Hits 200,000 Covid Cases 

Tasmania’s Covid case numbers topped 200,000 yesterday, another grave milestone in the ongoing pandemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

100 Covid Deaths: An Utterly Tragic, and Preventable Milestone

This is a profoundly tragic statistic, but it’s 100 lives cut short and 100 Tasmanian families grieving.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Skyrocketing Covid Cases Expose Rockliff’s Failure

Skyrocketing cases and hospitalisations are down to the Liberals’ reckless, unscientific decision to facilitate mass infection.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Government Leaving Tasmanians at Risk as Covid Hospitalisations Rise

The soaring hospitalisations rate reported in the latest Covid-19 data is yet more evidence that the Government’s reckless approach to this deadly virus is putt

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Jul 2022


Ambulance, Interior

Urgent Action Needed on Ramping Crisis

A newly published Victorian study highlighting the harm caused to patients by ambulance ramping has important implications for Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jul 2022


Coronavirus

Rockliff Must Advocate Masks as Covid Emergency Declaration Ends

Given rising case numbers and a new subvariant becoming dominant, it's a mistake for the Rockliff Government to end the Covid health emergency declaration.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Jun 2022


Coronavirus

Liberals Cut Protections while Covid Cases Double

In the last two days, Tasmania’s Covid case number has more than doubled to 1000 cases, and hospitalisations have increased by a third.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Jun 2022


Coronavirus

Estimates Reply – Rockliff

Essentially, across all of our health services is the reality that we are in a global pandemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  14 Jun 2022


Parliament House, Tasmania

Health Workforce Retention

Fundamentally, what healthcare workers were expecting, and understanding has to be delivered by the Liberal Government.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  14 Jun 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Science and Technology – Health ICT Funding

Minister, page 99 of the budget paper No. 2, volume 1 shows an allocation of $150 million for the Digital Health Transformation Initiative.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Attorney-General and Justice – Consent to Medical Treatment

The Tasmanian Law Reform Institute has also done another excellent body of research on legal recognition of sex and gender.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


AFL

Greens’ Support for Tasmanian AFL and AFLW Teams

Our firm support for the State’s AFL bid, however, did not include backing in a new stadium – and will not. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Jun 2022


Doctor with Patient

Health – Blood Donations

Minister, another topic raised by us in relation to men who have sex with men is their capacity to participate as blood donors.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Pills

Health – Pill Testing

The recommendation from the New South Wales Coroner, on the back of six deaths between 2017 and 2019, that pill testing should be introduced.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Medicinal Cannabis

Health – Medicinal Cannabis

I want to talk about the controlled-access scheme for medicinal cannabis.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Hospital Bed

Health – Elective Surgery

Stephen is back on the waiting list for surgery as a category three case and has been told to expect a 12 month wait.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health – Emergency Departments

An important measure of the performance of an emergency department is how many patients are being seen on time.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Ambulance, Interior

Health – Ambulances and Paramedics

On the Saturday night, the day after, 14 May, there were no ambulances staffed at Huonville again, Dodges Ferry again and then at Glenorchy.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


Coronavirus

Health – Covid

This time last year there were zero cases of COVID 19 in Tasmania and 13 people had died of COVID disease.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Jun 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

HIV Survivors Awareness Day

Since 1981, according to the United Nations AIDS agency, 78 million were infected and an estimated 39 million have died of AIDs-related illnesses.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  2 Jun 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Greens Table Petition to Support Health Workers

Today I tabled a petition calling on the Rockliff Government to fix Tasmania’s devastated health system, on behalf of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Feder

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Jun 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Budget Health Cuts

The need is coming from the increasing number of people who access health services every day.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2022


Doctor with Patient

Valuing our Health Workers

We have an enduring situation in Tasmania. It has been going on for a long time, but under this Government, over the last eight years, nothing has improved.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  31 May 2022


Hospital Bed

COVID-19 - Public Health Response Limitations

Mr Speaker, we have entered the age of normalising the mass infection of people with COVID-19 and normalising mass death.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 May 2022


Doctor with Face Mask

COVID-19 - Public Health Response Limitations

I put on the record my concern that the Government is continuing to rest its entire public health protection response to COVID 19 on vaccines.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 May 2022


Coronavirus

COVID-19 - Protective Measures

Yesterday, Tasmania recorded 900 new COVID-19 cases, 51 people are in hospital and case numbers there have been high for over a month.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 May 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ambulance Response Times

One of the very large issues which has changed is the casualisation of much of the paramedic graduate workforce.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 May 2022


Coronavirus

Removing Covid Protections is Irresponsible

Today’s announcement that Covid close contact restrictions will be dropped is irresponsible and potentially harmful.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Apr 2022


Prison, Man Gripping Bars

Archer Must Act on Risdon Prison Covid Outbreak

Risdon Prison is overcrowded and understaffed, and now they are battling mass outbreaks of Coronavirus and staff absences.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Apr 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Liberal Leadership Renewal an Opportunity for a Reset

On behalf of the Greens, I warmly congratulate Jeremy Rockliff on becoming Tasmania’s 47th Premier and Michael Ferguson on his elevation to Deputy Premier.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Apr 2022


Coronavirus

100,000+ Reasons to Mask Up

Today Tasmania’s Covid case count is over 100,000. In real terms, that means about 1 in 5 Tasmanians has been infected.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Apr 2022


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Tasmanians Let Down by Morrison Budget

Lutruwita/Tasmania and its people have been sorely let down by Scott Morrison’s pre-election budget.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

What Will it Take for Gutwein to Reinstate Masks?

Today’s 2,472 Covid case count is another record high, and Tasmania now has almost 12,000 active cases.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

COVID-19 - Government Actions and Numbers of Cases

In total, more than 70 000 Tasmanians have been infected, including thousands of children and young people, with a novel bat virus.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

Covid Rate a Terrible First for Tasmania

Tasmania is close to topping the nation in our state’s Covid infection rate, but this is no matter for celebration.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

Covid Case Jump Confirms Need to Mask Up

In the last 48 hours, new Covid cases have doubled, which is what happens when politics trumps public health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

Covid Cases Jump as Masks Come Off

Today’s 400+ case jump follows the Gutwein Government’s decision to remove mask wearing protections in most indoor settings.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2022


Coronavirus

Mask Removal Reckless as Cases Climb

The Gutwein Government’s decision to remove mask wearing protections in most indoor settings is reckless.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Mar 2022


Doctor with Patient

Liberals Refuse to Release Mask Advice

In their refusal to provide Public Health advice on removal of mask protections, the Gutwein Government is treating Tasmanians with contempt.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Mar 2022


Doctor with Patient

Gutwein Refuses to Stand Up to Abetz and TCCI on Mask Protections

With Covid case numbers in the last two days over 1000, the TCCI and Liberal Senator Eric Abetz have recklessly called for the removal of mask protections.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Mar 2022


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Liberals’ Updated High Risk Covid Schools Plan

The Gutwein Government’s “updated’ Covid school plan denies the reality of massive case numbers in unprotected children.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Mar 2022


Doctor with Patient

Gutwein’s Reckless Removal of Masks

The Gutwein Government’s decision to remove universal mask wearing requirements is reckless.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Mar 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Gutwein Government’s Failed Covid Guidelines Put Aged Care Residents at Risk

The independent OzSAGE group of epidemiologists warn against incorrectly referring to Covid as principally being transmitted via contact and droplets.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Mar 2022


Doctor with Patient

Gutwein Reckless Considering End to Mask Mandate

We are unsurprised at the Liberals’ plan to ditch mandatory check-ins, but the Premier’s indication he will consider dropping mask mandates is alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Feb 2022


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Transparency Needed on School Covid Numbers

We are calling on the Gutwein Government to be transparent about Covid case numbers in schools.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Feb 2022


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Unsafe Rush to Face to Face Learning Has Predictable Outcome

School has been back for less than a week and seven Tasmanian schools have reported Covid outbreaks

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Feb 2022


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Students Back to School and At Covid Risk

Many parents will be stressed sending their children to school today, as will teachers returning to the classroom.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Feb 2022


Empty Classroom

Courtney Should Resign After She Recovers and Returns

Sarah Courtney has failed as Education Minister.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Feb 2022


Doctor with Patient

Greens Covid19 Emergency Response Plan

An evidence-based public health plan for stopping the spread of Covid, and saving lives and livelihoods.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Policies  |  1 Feb 2022


Hospital Bed

Greens Release Plan to Flatten the Curve and Save Lives

Lutruwita/Tasmania needs to flatten the curve to save lives and livelihoods.The Greens’ plan puts the health and safety of Tasmanians and local businesses first

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Feb 2022


Person with Disability with his Parents

ROGS Data Confirms Liberals Failing Tasmanians with a Disability

Today’s Report on Government Services data shows Tasmania lagging behind the rest of the nation in delivering support to people with disability.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Jan 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Government Must Ensure Safe Staffing Levels for Nurses

The Premier assured us he has financial flex in his budget, and he should use it to ensure safe staffing levels in the health system, and to make a COVID allowa

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jan 2022


Education, Textbook and Laptop

Education Minister MIA

Parents are anxious to hear the Government’s COVID safe schools plans. But instead of overseeing this critical task, Minister Sarah Courtney has gone on holiday

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Jan 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

City Hall Another Sign of Unprepared Government

The fact the Government has begun planning to use Hobart City Hall for COVID management is yet another example of how unprepared they were for borders to reopen

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Jan 2022


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

One Month From Reopening, Cases Still Climbing and No Plan to Contain Covid

In four short weeks since the Premier prematurely opened the border to Covid, cases continue to soar

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Jan 2022


Doctor with Face Mask

Health Workers Deserve COVID Allowance

The Gutwein government needs to follow Victoria’s lead and give healthcare workers in the public system a COVID allowance

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Jan 2022


Hospital Bed

As Infections Climb, Hospitalisation Data Needs Clarifying

As the Premier fiddles while Rome burns and gets ready for an Ashes superspreader event, Covid is infecting more and more Tasmanians every day

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Jan 2022


Hospital Bed

As Cases Soar, World Health Organisation Makes a Lie of Premier’s ‘Mild’ Claims

With a 50% test positivity rate and 2223 recorded cases today, Tasmanians are suffering as a result of the Gutwein Government’s hands-off approach to Omicron.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jan 2022


Justice, Scales and Gavel

Jury Trial Suspension is on Peter Gutwein

The Supreme Court’s decision to suspend jury trials, while right for the safety of those called to do jury duty, will mean justice is delayed for many.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Jan 2022


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Gutwein Must Reset to Save Lives and Livelihoods

Every day Covid is allowed to rage is another day of sickness in our community, local businesses having to shut their doors and casual workers losing income.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Jan 2022


Parliament House, Tasmania

Peter Gutwein Needs to Stand Up to Morrison at National Cabinet

The Premier who has effectively abandoned Tasmanians to Covid needs to show some backbone at National Cabinet today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Jan 2022


Hospital Bed

Gutwein Must Reverse Let It Rip Strategy

The predicted and rapidly unfolding COVID crisis is hurting Tasmania. Hundreds of people a day are being infected, testing is a mess and businesses are closing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Jan 2022


Hospital Bed

Gutwein Signs on to Morrison’s Dangerous Covid Path

The Prime Minister’s reset of close contacts, and anti-testing rhetoric is dangerous and will put lives at risk – but it was accepted by Premier Gutwein.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Dec 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Gutwein Abandons Tasmanians to Omicron

With his let-it-rip strategy, Peter Gutwein has gone from hero to public health enemy number one within a fortnight.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Dec 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

The Reopening of Tasmania’s Borders

After nearly two years of relative safety from COVID, Tasmania opened its borders to all mainland states today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Dec 2021


Ambulance, Interior

Liberals Must Act on Health Concerns

Police Union reports of an unresponsive baby who had to be transported to hospital by police because no ambulance was available are alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Dec 2021


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

MAIB - Claims

What proportion of claimants receive daily care payments, housekeeping payments, loss of income allowances?

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Dec 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Vaccine Mandates for High Risk Professions

With borders opening in just three weeks, Premier Peter Gutwein needs to provide certainty around the mandatory vaccination of highly exposed professions.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Nov 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Premier Backtracking on Public Health Commitments

Premier Peter Gutwein seems to be abandoning some of his previous public health commitments as we approach the date he set for reopening Tasmania's borders.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Nov 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

COVID-19 - Potential Cases in Health Workers

The influx of people from COVID 19 states starts on 15 December and we must have our health system able to cope with the inevitable caseload.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Nov 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Minister Silent on Healthcare Staff COVID Absences

The Government must urgently consider the potential health system impacts of absences from healthcare workers who become infected with coronavirus.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Nov 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

HealthStats Reveals More Disastrous Scenes at RHH ED

The HealthStats update, released today, once again shows the deepening crisis at the Royal Hobart Hospital, with record low statistics once again

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Oct 2021


House of Assembly, Tasmania

COVID-19 - Decision to Reopen Tasmania on 15 December 2021

Are you absolutely certain reopening on 15 December is the right decision by the Tasmanian people?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 Oct 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Greens Support ANMF Petition

The Tasmanian Greens are proud to sponsor the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation’s parliamentary petition about our state’s deepening health crisis.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Oct 2021


Legislation, Clause Being Highlighted

Poisons Amendment Bill 2021

I would like to reflect on the still-to-be-completed coronial inquest into the death by his own hand of a Tasmanian paramedic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Oct 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Estimates Reply - Minister Rockliff

A major topic of conversation for some period was our state's COVID-19 preparations.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Sep 2021


Parliament House, Tasmania

Mental Health and Wellbeing - Eating Disorder Clinic

Minister, I asked you in Estimates last year about the construction of a stand-alone eating disorder clinic at St John's.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Medicinal Cannabis

Health - Medical Cannabis

Tasmania's Controlled Access Scheme was widely acknowledged as being overly restrictive and ideologically dominated.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health - Hospital Performance and Staffing

In July, the Royal Hobart Hospital recorded its worst result on record for patients seen on time.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Hospital Bed

Health - Elective Surgeries

The performance target you have for elective surgeries in this Budget are extremely welcome.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Ambulance, Interior

Health - Paramedics and Ambulances

Last year in budget Estimates we asked the Minister to provide data for the number of code blue events that had occurred on the ramp at the Royal.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Health - COVID-19

We are now in a situation where the majority of the Australian population is in lockdown due to the significant outbreaks of the Delta variant.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 Sep 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Hospital Emergency Department Staffing

The Department of Health dashboard for June shows the number of patients seen on time in our emergency departments was the lowest ever.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 Aug 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Greens Deliver Vision for Fairer, Healthier Lutruwita/Tasmania

Our Alternative Budget recognises far too many people are struggling to put a roof over their head, access healthcare, pay bills, or put food on the table.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Sep 2021


Local Food, Fresh Vegetables

Food Amendment Bill 2021

There are so many other situations that food-borne diseases can change in the nature of transmission, reproduction and proliferation.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 Aug 2021


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Worst Results on Record for Emergency Departments

Today’s HealthStats Dashboard update shows key statistics for Tasmania's EDs have reached new lows

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Aug 2021


Hospital Bed

Guardianship and Administration Amendment (Advance Care Directives) Bill 2021

There is a real issue around self-determination for people who come under emergency orders and guardianship orders.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jul 2021


Doctor with Patient

Guardianship and Administration Amendment (Advance Care Directives) Bill 2021

We were the first party to introduce legislation for voluntary assisted dying. Three times it took for that legislation to come to pass.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jul 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Government Should Reassure Tasmanians on COVID-19 Outbreak

The spread across Australia of the highly infectious Delta variant is a matter of legitimate concern to Tasmanians.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jun 2021


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Government Fiscal Sustainability Report 2021 – Time to Make the Corporates Pay

The Tasmanian Government Fiscal Sustainability Report 2021 reiterates the findings of previous reports from Treasury. It makes it clear things need to change.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Jun 2021


Doctor with Patient

Greens Support Calls for Permanent NW Vaccination Hub

The Tasmanian Greens support calls for a permanent COVID-19 vaccination clinic to be set up in North West Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Jun 2021


Hospital Bed

Rockliff Must Give Nurses a Place at the Table

Tasmania’s new Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff should re-establish the position of Statewide Executive Director of Nursing on the THS Executive Board

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 May 2021


Hospital Bed

Greens' Fix For Health

The Greens understand the need for immediate and ambitious action to tackle the health crisis, and are proud to announce our comprehensive plan to do just that.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Apr 2021


Doctor with Patient

Greens Support Independent Inquiry into Mental Health Care

The issues raised by 16 psychiatrists in a letter to the Australian Medical Association are alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Apr 2021


Handgun with Bullets

Greens Welcome Labor Commitment on Gun Laws, Call for Liberals to Release Policy

The Greens support strong gun laws in Tasmania. We were proud to release our policy in the early stages of the campaign to strengthen our state's gun laws.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Apr 2021


Hospital Bed

Solving the Nursing Shortage

The Greens were proud to join members of the ANMF to launch our plan to solve the nursing and midwife shortage

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Apr 2021


Ambulance, Interior

Prioritising Ambulances and Paramedics

Every Tasmanian knows Ambulance Tasmania is an essential part of our health system, and that paramedics do an incredible job of looking after our community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Apr 2021


Handgun with Bullets

Greens Release Plan for Strong Gun Laws, Safer Communities

All Tasmanians should feel safe in their community. Strong firearms laws ensure people are protected.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Apr 2021


Bicycles

Greens Release Plan to Invest in Community Health

On behalf of the Greens I was proud to release our community health plan. Investing in preventative health services keeps people healthier and out of hospitals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Apr 2021


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Day 13: Peter Gutwein Still Withholding Truth from Voters

Peter Gutwein is being utterly contemptuous of voters in hiding the truth about the secret casino pokies tax deal he’s agreed to give the Federal Group.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Apr 2021


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Day 12: Silence from Liberals on Deal with Federal Hotels

We’re almost two weeks into this premature election campaign and still a stunning silence from Peter Gutwein about the casino pokies tax rate.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Apr 2021


Shaking Hands

Day Nine: Gutwein Continues to Withhold the Truth from Tasmanians on Secret Pokies Deal

It’s day nine of the State election campaign and the Premier still hasn’t told Tasmanians what deal his government stitched up with the Farrell family on the ca

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Apr 2021


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Day Eight and Gutwein’s Silence on Pokies Tax Deal Still Deafening

Tasmanians still don’t know what they’ll be paying to subsidise the casino pokies tax deal the Liberals have struck with Federal Group.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Apr 2021


Corruption, Handing over Envelope

Day Seven: We Know Labor’s Caved on Pokies – No Answer from Gutwein on Casino Pokies Tax

Labor has been forced to reveal its complete abandonment of principle and capitulation to the gambling industry, but the Premier continues to be slippery.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Apr 2021


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Day Six And Still No Answers from Either Party on Pokies

Both Peter Gutwein and Rebecca White are being willfully evasive with Tasmanian voters over their respective positions on pokies.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Mar 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Politics Must be Removed from Public Health

All announcements relating to the COVID emergency response during the state election campaign must be removed from politics.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Mar 2021


Hospital Bed

Liberals' Health Failure

The latest update to the HealthStats dashboard is another clear demonstration of a health system being completely mismanaged by the Liberals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Mar 2021


Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal Cannabis

I want to express relief on the part of every Tasmanian who has been wanting to see medicinal cannabis more freely available in this state.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  16 Mar 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Essential Hotel Quarantine Workers Betrayed by Liberals

Hotel quarantine workers have been betrayed by Premier Peter Gutwein. He must rectify the situation immediately.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Mar 2021


Hemp

Removal of Unfair Medicinal Cannabis Restrictions Welcome

The Greens welcome the Premier’s announcement today about access to medical cannabis.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Mar 2021


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Premier’s Irresponsible Logging Burn Spin

On the Saturday of the Labour Day long weekend, Forestry Tasmania set fire to a logged coupe in the Styx.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Mar 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Government Fails Workers, Increases COVID Risk

The Government’s failure to pay hotel quarantine staff their promised wage supplements is unfair on workers, andpotentially puts the community at risk

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Mar 2021


Privacy, Cyber Security, Padlock over Globe with Binary Code

Facebook Putting Lives at Risk

Facebook’s announcement they will be blocking Australian news is alarming, and will put lives at risk.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Feb 2021


Logged Forest, Tarkine

Gutwein Must Listen to Doctors on Climate

The Greens commend the Tasmanian branch of the Australian Medical Association for their strong statement recognising the existential threat of climate change.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Feb 2021


Doctor with Patient

ROGS Data Confirms Deepening Health Crisis

The latest Report on Government Services (ROGS) data for Health confirms Tasmania is in the midst of a health crisis that is worsening under the Liberals. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jan 2021


Lonely Child

Damning ROGS Data in Housing, Homelessness, Child Safety and Youth Justice

Vulnerable Tasmanians are being left behind by the Gutwein Government.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jan 2021


Hospital Bed

HealthStats Update Paints Alarming Picture

Today’s updates to the HealthStats dashboard paint a bleak picture of a government failing to adequately look after its citizens.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Jan 2021


Ambulance, Interior

Privacy Failure Requires Urgent Investigation

The massive privacy incursion in to the lives of every Tasmanian who’s called an ambulance since last November is inexcusable. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jan 2021


Doctor with Face Mask

Greens Question Lack of Border Restrictions

The Greens, like the majority of Tasmanians, appreciate the efforts of the Gutwein Government and public health officials to keep Tasmanians safe in 2020.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Jan 2021


Medicinal Cannabis

Health – Medicinal Cannabis

Under the controlled access scheme to medicinal cannabis in Tasmania, many patients seeking to access medicinal cannabis must be referred to a specialist.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Privacy, Cyber Security, Padlock over Globe with Binary Code

Health – Privacy

There has to be trust among people in the community about how the information will be gathered and stored and how privacy will be assured.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Hospital Bed

Health – Elective Surgery Waiting List

More than two years ago, in October 2018, then premier Will Hodgman said the elective surgery waiting list at that point was 'not good enough'.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Health – COVID-19

Despite our having responded and weathered the situation well, there is still an outstanding level of risk.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Doctor with Patient

Mental Health and Wellbeing – ADHD Support

ADHD is the most prevalent childhood neurodevelopmental disorder and the estimates range but it's around 4 per cent.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 Nov 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Advanced Manufacturing and Defence Industries – Medical Manufacturing

The COVID pandemic has shown us very starkly how reliant we are on the import of specialised medical equipment to keep our hospitals functioning.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 Nov 2020


Justice, Scales and Gavel

Commission of Inquiry Must Investigate LGH and Ashley Youth Detention Centre

The Liberals must do right by the children who are, and have been, in government care.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Nov 2020


Justice, Scales and Gavel

Commission of Inquiry into LGH Abuse Needed

The allegations a child sex offender was working as a nurse on the paediatrics ward at the Launceston General Hospital for nearly 20 years are distressing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Nov 2020


Doctor with Patient

Greens Welcome Doctors’ Call to End Native Forest Logging

The Greens welcome the call by 250 doctors and medical students to end native forest logging in lutruwita/Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Nov 2020


Aircraft, QANTAS Passenger Jet

Caution and Public Safety Campaign Needed as Borders Reopen

With borders reopening today, the Gutwein Government needs to reinforce public health messages to keep Tasmanians safe.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Oct 2020


Doctor with Patient

Urgent Care Centre Report Welcome, Rollout Must be Prioritised

We welcome the release of the feasibility study into Urgent Care Centres - after more than 18 months of it sitting on the Health Minister’s desk.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Oct 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

HealthStats Paints Worsening Elective Surgery Picture

​​​​​​​Today’s update to the HealthStats dashboard paints a bleak picture for those Tasmanians waiting for urgent, potentially life-saving elective surgery.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Sep 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Premier Needs Strategy for Tackling COVID-19 Misinformation

Flyers promoting COVID-19 conspiracy theories have been dropped into Tasmanian letterboxes.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Sep 2020


Doctor with Patient

Health in the North

The problem with the Launceston General Hospital has nothing to do with staff and everything to do with continual underfunding and under-resourcing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Sep 2020


Hobart Private Hospital

Health Minister Must Act on Elective Surgery

Public elective surgery waiting lists are out of control, and the Health Minister Sarah must commit to using the private health system to reduce them.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Sep 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

ANMF Submission Confirms North West PPE Allegations

The ANMF submission to the investigation of the North West COVID-19 outbreak confirms many public reports about the lack of access to PPE.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Sep 2020


Doctor with Patient

North West Health Services

The people of Tasmania deserve and expect to have quality healthcare services and that means quality in what is provided in a compassionate environment.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 Aug 2020


Science Lab

Community Leaders Should Support Public Health Advice

It is the responsibility of community leaders to support the advice of public health officials.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Aug 2020


Aircraft, QANTAS Passenger Jet

Border Controls

It has been seven weeks since we have been in this Chamber and much has changed in Australia in relation to where we are with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Aug 2020


Aircraft, QANTAS Passenger Jet

COVID-19 - Definition of Essential Worker

What is the difference between an essential worker, an essential traveller, and someone who is subject to two weeks' mandatory quarantine?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Aug 2020


Hospital Bed

Workers Submitting to NW Inquiry Need Protection Guarantee

The opening of submissions for the Independent Inquiry into the NW outbreak is welcome, but the government must guarantee protection for all who provide input.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Jul 2020


Pills

AIHW Report Confirms War on Drugs Has Failed

Latest AIHW data shows that the amount of Tasmanians who recently used cannabis was almost as high as Tasmania’s tobacco smoking rate.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Jul 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

State of Emergency Extension

The decision to extend the emergency declaration to match Victoria’s lockdown restrictions is understandable, and pragmatic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Jul 2020


Doctor with Patient

Government Must Prioritise Respiratory Health Housing Refits

The reports of respiratory illness from a Housing Tasmania complex in South Hobart are distressing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Jul 2020


Hospital Bed

Government Must Provide Worker Immunity for COVID Inquiry

Health workers and public servants who want to contribute to the independent inquiry into the North West COVID-19 outbreak should be guaranteed protection.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Jun 2020


Doctor with Patient

Eating Disorder Support Urgently Needed

The lack of specialist treatment for eating disorders in Tasmania has been an ongoing, and often tragic, issue.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Jun 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

COVID-19 Milestone A Tribute to All Tasmanians

Tasmania has reached a milestone after a three month battle that claimed lives, closed businesses and caused thousands of job losses.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Jun 2020


Economy, Finance, Calculator, Pen and Graph

COVID-19 Emergency

We are in a unique time in Tasmania's history. For the first time in a very long time we are effectively sealed off as an island.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  4 Jun 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Undercutting Public Health Irresponsible

Constant pressure by some elected representatives for the Premier to accelerate the easing of social restrictions is irresponsible. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 May 2020


Science Lab

Premier Must Listen to Health Advice Over Industry Lobbyists

The Premier is right to be concerned about a second wave of coronavirus disease.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 May 2020


Doctor with Patient

Clearance Tests for COVID-19 Needed

Public Health today confirmed two coronavirus patients, who were categorised as ‘recovered’, had subsequently redeveloped symptoms.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  12 May 2020


Air View of Houses

Vacancy Data Highlights Need to Regulate Airbnb

SQM Research vacancy rate data released today clearly shows reform of short-stay accommodation is well overdue.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 May 2020


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Unlocking of Green Spaces Welcome

The Greens welcome the Premier’s announcement that Tasmania’s green spaces will be open to locals from this coming Monday. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 May 2020


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Steady as she goes Gutwein on the right track

The Premier has outlined a clear, staged and steady pathway to short term recovery from the coronavirus lockdown.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 May 2020


Science Lab

COVID-19 Matter of Public importance

I return to the letter that was written by some doctors from the north-west who have been at the forefront of the coronavirus pandemic in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  7 May 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

COVID-19 - Implementation of Recommendations

The north-west COVID-19 outbreak has been devastating for the families of people who died and hugely affected the 5000 people who went into quarantine.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  6 May 2020


Science Lab

Community Testing a Critical Part of COVID-19 Suppression

The approach to COVID-19 testing in Tasmania needs to change for us to fully understand the pattern of transmission.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 May 2020


takayna / tarkine, Tasmania

North West Doctors' Forest Protection Calls Must be Central to COVID-19 Recovery Plan

The plea from 23 GP's, registrars, and emergency doctors to protect Tasmania's high conservation value forests should be heeded by all Members of Parliament.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 May 2020


Doctor with Patient

North West COVID-19 Restrictions

The Premier’s decision to ease restrictions for the North West will be welcome news for residents in the region.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 May 2020


Homeless Man

Support for Rough Sleepers Welcome

The Greens warmly welcome the Premier’s announcement today that more support will be provided to homeless Tasmanians.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Apr 2020


Air View of Houses

COVID-19 Rent Freeze Welcome

Residential tenants can breathe a sigh of relief after the Premier’s announcement today of a freeze on rent increases.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Apr 2020


Science Lab

Retesting of COVID-19 Patients is Critical

The revelation a couple were cleared to leave self-isolation, only for one of them to return a further positive COVID-19 test, is disturbing.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Apr 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

North West PPE Allegations Must Be Investigated

Allegations raised in The Saturday Paper* about the origins of the North West’s COVID-19 outbreak are serious.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Apr 2020


Hospital Bed

The North West is Suffering

It is difficult to imagine the level of stress, anxiety and grief on the North West Coast today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Apr 2020


Burnie, North-West Tasmania

North West Testing Must Be Expanded

The current high rate of positive coronavirus test results being reported strongly suggests we must expand the testing being undertaken.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Apr 2020


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Caution Urged on Term 2 Return

The Greens acknowledge the decision to reopen schools after the break for the children of essential workers and disadvantaged students.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Apr 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Assurance on PPE Stocks Needed

It is deeply concerning that hospital staff continue to raise the lack of availability of personal protective equipment needed to do their job safely.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Apr 2020


Science Lab

Increased North West Testing Needed Now

The approach to COVID-19 testing in North West Tasmania must change to ensure we have the best chance of limiting the virus’ impact on the community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Apr 2020


Parliament House, Tasmania

Transparency Needed Over North West Coronavirus Outbreak

Tasmanians deserve maximum transparency over the circumstances that led to the coronavirus outbreak in the North West.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Apr 2020


Doctor with Patient

Unified Health System Needed Across Tasmania

It’s been almost two weeks since the Federal Government announced it would underwrite the takeover of private hospitals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Apr 2020


Air View of Houses

Time to Move on Residential Rents Too

The Premier has today issued a Notice prohibiting evictions and freezing rent increases in commercial properties.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Apr 2020


Prison, Man Gripping Bars

Avoiding a COVID-19 Prison Cluster is a Priority

The Greens commend the decision to suspend all prison visits, but remain concerned about the potential high risk for coronavirus transmission.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Apr 2020


Hospital Bed

Hospital and Aged Care Visits Suspended

The news that hospitals and aged care homes will be closed to visitors will be difficult for many to hear - but is a critical public health measure.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Apr 2020


Homeless Man

Ensuring Safe, Secure and Affordable Housing During COVID-19

The tenants in the 20-unit complex in Hobart facing a huge rent hike is further evidence the State Government must enact a freeze on rent increases.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Apr 2020


Doctor with Patient

North West Patients Need Reassurance on Health Services

With more cases of COVID-19 being announced daily residents need an assurance they will not need to leave the North West for critical health services.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Apr 2020


Hospital Bed

Private Hospital Must be Available Immediately in North West

Last week, the Federal Government announced it would underwrite the integration of private hospitals into the public system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Apr 2020


Preferential Voting, Ballot Paper

Legislative Council Election Deferral Should Have Been Dealt with by Parliament

The Greens recognise the strong public health grounds behind the Director of Public Health’s decision to defer Legislative Council elections.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Apr 2020


Air View of Houses

COVID-19 Rental Evictions Order

The Greens are glad to hear the Premier say he will issue an Order today to protect tenants in private or public rental homes from evictions.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Apr 2020


Doctor with Patient

Hospitals United in COVID-19 Crisis

The Greens welcome the federal government’s plan to underwrite the integration of private hospitals into the public system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Mar 2020


Hospital Bed

Coronavirus Deaths a Tragic Reminder to Stay Home

On behalf of the Greens, I offer our heartfelt sympathies to the loved ones of the two Tasmanians who have lost their lives to the coronavirus.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Mar 2020


Science Lab

Go Hard, Go Early and Save Lives

Limiting people’s social movements outside their homes to all but essential activity is necessary to save lives.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Mar 2020


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

COVID-19 Schools Announcement Welcome

The Greens welcome the Premier’s advice that parents should keep their children at home from school from Monday if they can.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Mar 2020


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

COVID-19 Economic Assistance Package

The Greens acknowledge the enormous uncertainty and fear within in the community about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Mar 2020


Parliament House, Tasmania

Adjournment of Parliament

The Tasmanian Parliament has agreed to adjourn until the first scheduled sitting week after the winter recess.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Mar 2020


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Mixed Message on Schools Creating Confusion

The disconnect from government imposing strict physical distancing measures and not closing schools is creating confusion within the community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Mar 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Ignoring COVID-19 Directions Puts Lives at Risk

The Greens implore all Tasmanians to take the coronavirus threat very seriously, to practice physical distancing and to stay home if they can.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Mar 2020


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Pokies Venues Must Close to Save Lives

It is reckless negligence towards at-risk people for poker machine venues to continue to operate EGMs during a lethal, global pandemic. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Mar 2020


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

COVID-19 Budget Delay

The Greens are relieved the State Budget has been delayed. It’s the right decision in a time of deep social and financial uncertainty.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Mar 2020


Lonely Child

Plan Needed to Protect Vulnerable Children During COVID-19 Pandemic

Our child protection services were already struggling, but COVID-19 is exacerbating the situation.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Mar 2020


Education, Textbook and Laptop

COVID-19 - School Closures

Today you have declared a state of emergency, a clear acknowledgment of the great danger COVID-19 poses to our island community.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  19 Mar 2020


Classroom, Students with Raised Hands

Government Must Close Schools to Limit COVID-19 Spread

Today’s declaration of a state of emergency and implementation of tighter border restrictions were welcome moves by the Premier.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Mar 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

State of Emergency, Quarantine Measures for Arrivals Welcome

The Premier has the Greens’ strong support for announcing a state of emergency for Tasmania. This decision will save lives.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Mar 2020


Aircraft, QANTAS Passenger Jet

COVID-19 - Tasmanian Access Card

People are asked to fill out a Tasmanian Arrival Card when they land but this is only a voluntary self-declaration process.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Mar 2020


Aircraft, QANTAS Passenger Jet

Gutwein Must Fix Tasmanian Arrival Card Process

Protecting Tasmanians from the risk of all COVID-19-infected travellers is essential to slowing the spread of the virus in our community.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Mar 2020


Green Economics

Gutwein Government Will Have to Follow WA's Lead on Waiving Fees and Charges

Stimulating the local economy to buffer it from COVID-19 is important but the Gutwein Government needs to do more to support low income people.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Mar 2020


Ambulance, Interior

Ministerial Statement - COVID-19 Response Measures

It is good to hear some of the things that the Premier has just announced.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Mar 2020


Science Lab

COVID-19 - Protection Measures

On current growth rates, the now 400 cases today in Australia of COVID-19 would become 10 000 by 4 April, in just a few weeks' time.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Mar 2020


Doctor with Patient

COVID-19 - Restrictions

More than 140 doctors have warned of impending disaster implored Government to do more before there is rapid community transmission.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Mar 2020


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Tasmanian COVID-19 Support Package

The Premier’s stimulus package announced today contains a number of positive measures to support businesses struggling with the coronavirus downturn.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Mar 2020


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Federal Group Must Prioritise People's Lives Over Profits

The Federal Group appears not to fully grasp the deadly seriousness of the health risk within their pokies venues.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Mar 2020


Doctor with Patient

Immediate Effective COVID-19 Restrictions Required

The State Government must immediately introduce a range of restrictions shown to slow the viral spread of COVID-19. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2020


Cruise Ship

COVID-19 Cruise Ship Risk Should be Mitigated by Government

This morning the cruise ship Magnifica decided to lock down all passengers on board for their own health and safety.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Mar 2020


Science Lab

COVID-19 Risk Management

A letter to Health Minister Sarah Courtney MP seeking information on COVID-19 preparedness.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Submission  |  14 Mar 2020


Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Tasmania

Dark Mofo

The cancellation of Tasmania’s premier winter festival, Dark Mofo is sad, but in all likelihood a necessary measure.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Mar 2020


Doctor with Face Mask

Coronavirus and dentist mask shortage

A letter to Health Minister, Sarah Courtney MP, regarding Tasmanian dental practices access to face masks.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Submission  |  6 Mar 2020


Doctor with Patient

Ministerial Statement - Coronavirus Update

Since the first reports of the coronavirus came out it has been quite difficult to have a full understanding of what this viral pneumonia disease is.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  3 Mar 2020


Parliament House, Tasmania

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) public health information

A letter to Health Minister, Sarah Courtney MP, regarding the adequacy of public health information in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Submission  |  28 Feb 2020


Doctor with Patient

Reassurance about Coronavirus Pandemic Preparations Needed

The Health Minister must reassure Tasmanians about our state’s preparations if a pandemic pattern of the virus is declared.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Feb 2020


Air View of Houses

Liberals' Failure Laid Bare on Social Justice Day

World Social Justice Day shines the spotlight on Premier Gutwein’s promise of a ‘compassionate’ government for Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Feb 2020


Gender Equality

Ugly Liberal Anti-Abortion Ideology Continues

The anti-abortion position of the Liberals is shown by their refusal to provide surgical termination procedures through the public hospital system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Feb 2020


Pills

Liberals Still Holding Back Pill Testing

Festivals want to make sure they provide the safest possible environment to their patrons, but the Liberal Party is standing in their way.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Feb 2020


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Serious Lead Levels Demand Health Investigation

High levels of lead detected in the water supply for the new Royal Hobart Hospital K-Block building is deeply concerning news.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Feb 2020


Air View of Houses

DEC Must Remain in Public Hands

The Greens welcome the move towards a state basketball team. The Derwent Entertainment Centre deal, however, must be approached with caution.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Dec 2019


Pills

ANU Review Demands Action on Pill Testing

The ANU review found the pill testing service at Groovin’ the Moo did not encourage the use of drugs.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Dec 2019


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Get Ready for Labor and Ogilvie to Sell Out Gambling Victims

Tasmanians who have suffered gambling addiction are set to be abandoned by both State Labor and former Labor MP Madeleine Ogilvie.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Dec 2019


Lonely Child

TCCI Report Reveals Widening Wealth Gap Under Hodgman Liberals

The TCCI’s ‘Tasmania Report’ confirms what many Tasmanians are feeling. The wealth gap is widening under Will Hodgman’s leadership.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Dec 2019


Industrial Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Hodgman Government's Legacy

Cassy O'Connor questions the Premier over a year of failings.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Nov 2019


Pills

Party In The Paddock to Champion Pill Testing

We are proud to be the sponsor of Party In The Paddock’s Parliamentary petition calling for pill testing to be trialled in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Nov 2019


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Emergency Department at the LGH

Rosalie Woodruff contributes to Labor's Motion regarding the emergency department at the Launceston General Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  13 Nov 2019


Hospital Bed

Health Budget and Access Solutions meeting agreements

The Minister for Health oversees a budget which grows every year. That is the nature of the Health budget.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Nov 2019


Pills

NSW Coroner Recommends Immediate Action on Pill Testing

The New South Wales deputy state coroner has examined the tragic deaths at music festivals and today passed down her findings. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Nov 2019


Pills

Labor Back Liberals in the Failed 'War on Drugs'

The Liberals’ ban on the sale of ice pipes passed through the House of Assembly this afternoon with the support of the Labor Party.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Oct 2019


Drugs

Ice Pipe Ban Bill Puts Lives at Risk

The Health Minister, Sarah Courtney, today tabled a Bill to ban the sale of ice pipes that, if passed, will put people’s lives at further risk.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Oct 2019


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Tasmanian Health System Cuts

It has been confirmed since you came to office in 2014, around $1.6 billion of funding that should have gone into the health system has been spent elsewhere.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  10 Sep 2019


Doctor with Patient

Hodgman's Health Dishonesty

Premier Will Hodgman continues to falsely claim his government has not cut the Health Budget.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Sep 2019


Doctor with Patient

Nurses Next in Liberals' Frontline Health Cuts

The enforced reduction of casual and permanent part-time nurses’ shift hours is the next frontline health cut under the Liberals’ efficiency dividend.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Sep 2019


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Labor Abandon Health as Paul Lennon's Grip Tightens

After spending five years talking about the importance of health to Tasmanians, Labor appears to have abandoned their ‘top priority’.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Sep 2019


Hobart Private Hospital

Hobart Private Lease a Gift to Healthscope's Cayman Island Investors

The Hodgman Government has gifted the long-term lease of Hobart Private Hospital to Healthscope.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Aug 2019


Doctor with Patient

Courtney Must Rule Out Cruel Frontline Health Cuts

Health Minister, Sarah Courtney must rule out elective surgery cuts for public health patients.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Aug 2019


Doctor with Patient

Government Responsible For Water Quality Fix

Six million litres of untreated sewage was discharged into the Derwent River from the Macquarie Point Sewage Treatment Plant on Sunday.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Aug 2019


Pills

Labor Backflip on Protecting Young Lives

The Labor Party’s decision to oppose Independent MLC, Ruth Forrest’s pill testing Motion makes it clear they’ve abandoned their party platform.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Aug 2019


Doctor with Patient

Listeriosis Deaths

Mr Deputy Speaker, I rise tonight to make some comments about the very sad death last week of two people from listeriosis, a food-borne illness.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Jul 2019


Ambulance, Interior

Health Cuts

It is just a statement of fact that every single government from time immemorial has increased the Health budget year on year.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Jul 2019


Hospital Bed

Health - Efficiency Dividends and Budget Cuts

Ambulances are ramped eight and nine deep on a nightly basis, and clinical staff are crying out for adequate resourcing and leadership.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Jul 2019


Doctor with Patient

Listeria Deaths Linked to Tasmanian Salmon

The Tasmanian Government must undertake a thorough investigation of salmon farming processes as a matter of urgency.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Jul 2019


Pills

Courtney in Pill Testing Spotlight

Hobart City Council’s vote in support of pill testing puts new Health Minister, Sarah Courtney, in the spotlight.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Jul 2019


Doctor with Patient

Allied Health Professionals' Plea Must Be Heard

HACSU’s letter paints a disturbing picture about the impact on patients and staff from chronic underfunding of services. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Jun 2019


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Estimates Reply - Minister Ferguson

Chair, I will reflect on some of the enlightening conversations I had with the minister in his capacity as the Minister for Health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Jun 2019


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Mental Health

We have a situation where young people and children are admitted in mental health distress into wards for adults.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  11 Jun 2019


Doctor with Patient

Health - Implementation of Recommendations of Auditor-General

There is an absence of effective leadership and accountability to change a health service culture deeply resistant to change.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 May 2019


Hospital Bed

Hospitals - Implementation of Recommendations of Auditor-General

The Auditor-General's report into the performance of Tasmania's hospital emergency departments is extremely confronting.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 May 2019


Green Economics

Greens Release Future-Focussed Alternative Budget

Today we proudly delivered the Tasmanian Greens’ fully costed, long-term vision for Tasmania, our Alternative Budget 2019-20. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 May 2019


Green Economics

Budget Reply Speech

Cassy O'Connor delivers a budget reply speech for the 2019-20 state Budget, and speaks to alternative policies in the Greens' Alternative Budget.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 May 2019


Ambulance, Interior

Auditor General's Emergency Department Report Demands Action

The Auditor General’s report into Tasmania’s hospital emergency departments is enormously confronting.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 May 2019


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Climate Change Emergency - Health Effects

We have just 11 years to dramatically change course and avoid global heating that would bring catastrophic changes to all life.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 May 2019


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Budget in Vision and Compassion Deficit

The Treasurer promised a heavy infrastructure spend in today’s Budget, but what was clearly missing was the investment in social infrastructure. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 May 2019


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Health - Budget Priorities

The hospital executive received a letter that we spoke much about yesterday from the emergency department's registrar doctors.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 May 2019


Pills

Pill Testing at Public Events

The ACT health minister invited Minister Ferguson to the Groovin the Moo Festival to observe their second pill-testing trial in operation.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Apr 2019


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Hospitals - Recommendations of Registrars

The legacy of the Minister's five-year health leadership so far has been a failure to listen to doctors and nurses.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Apr 2019


Doctor with Patient

Tasmanian Salmon Listeria Concern

Reports from Queensland about Tasmanian salmon carrying the potentially fatal listeria bacteria in February this year are concerning.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Mar 2019


Lonely Child

Slow, Systemic Reforms Won't Fix Systemic Under-funding of Child Protection

Tasmanian children and young people are being let down day after day as a result of persistent under-resourcing by the Hodgman Liberal Government.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Mar 2019


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Tasmania's Distressing AIHW Mental Health Report Card

Tasmanians are buying an average of 9.3 prescriptions every year to help with their mental ill health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Dec 2018


Pills

Fearful Labor Abandons Pill Testing Policy

Labor has put politics above keeping young people safe in their decision not to support the Misuse of Drugs Amendment (Drug Analysis) Bill 2018.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Nov 2018


Doctor with Patient

Health Transparency

It is clear that what is at play in Tasmania is a structural underfunding by the Liberal Party of the health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  21 Nov 2018


Ambulance, Interior

Crisis in the Health System

The Greens agree with the general tenor of this motion. It is a bit of a political motion because it has an internal contradiction.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Oct 2018


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Ministerial Statement - Rebuilding the Health System

I cannot help bringing to my gaze to one of the big silences in this document, which contains some very welcome announcements and I will go to those.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  16 Oct 2018


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Mental Health Funding

There have been documented occasions where people in severe distress have been forced to wait in the emergency department for numbers of days.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  16 Oct 2018


Doctor with Patient

State of Health Report Confirms Need to Rethink Private Health Funding

Mr Goddard’s claim that more than 80 mortalities a year can be avoided, due to chronically under-resourced hospitals, is alarming.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Oct 2018


Doctor with Patient

Government Should Publish Glyphosate Health Advice

Last night’s ABC’s Four Corners exposed the secrecy and cover ups used by herbicide manufacturer Monsanto-Beyer.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Oct 2018


Ambulance, Interior

Want of Confidence in Minister for Health

In the paper today is exactly what we have been talking about: that this minister has persistently stood here and told fib after fib year after year.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  27 Sep 2018


Doctor with Patient

Health - KPMG Report

The secret KPMG report shows the truth in hard numbers.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  27 Sep 2018


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health System Funding

Subsequent budgets have not been keeping up to the real costs of running the hospital system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  19 Sep 2018


Doctor with Patient

Meningococcal Vaccine

If you are talking about improving processes, if the Labor Party has some information about how to improve the processes, you should have tabled that today.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Sep 2018


Doctor with Patient

Access to Health Services

Any one of us who represents our constituencies and our shadow portfolios will know that there are equity of access issues right around Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  29 Aug 2018


Hospital Bed

Health Whistleblowing

Dr O'Keeffe is a much-loved senior specialist in a range of women's health areas, including gynaecology and obstetrics.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Aug 2018


Hospital Bed

Minister for Health - Actions

Yesterday we saw on full display his arrogance as the Minister dismissed Frank O'Keeffe with a wave of his hand.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Aug 2018


Gender Equality

Hodgman Must Intervene on Reproductive Choice for Tasmanian Women

The Liberals have once again let their ideology rule policy, confirming surgical terminations will remain severely restricted.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 May 2018


Doctor with Patient

Greens Release Healthy Foods, Healthy Patients Plan

The resignation of yet another senior surgeon, makes it’s clear Michael Ferguson’s crisis at the Launceston General Hospital is ongoing.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  22 Feb 2018


Doctor with Patient

Unfolding Crisis at LGH Rests with Ferguson

There is an unfolding disaster for patients at the Launceston General Hospital as a result of Minister Ferguson's failure to respect clinical staff.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  3 Feb 2018


LGBTI Flags

Still Work to be Done on LGBTI Equality

Hundreds of Tasmanians refused to let thunder and rain dampen their rainbow spirits today at the annual TasPride march through Hobart.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Jan 2018


Gender Equality

Liberals Must Act on Reproductive Health

The closure of Tasmania’s only reproductive health clinic will place women seeking pregnancy termination in extremely difficult positions.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Jan 2018


Doctor with Patient

Elective Surgery Fail A Terrible Record For Health Minister

The Royal Hobart Hospital's record for providing elective surgery for people who urgently need it is the worst in the country, according to AIHW data.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Dec 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Tasmania Lagging on Emergency Department Wait Times Under Liberals

The AIHW report released today shows Tasmania’s two main hospitals are performing poorly compared to mainland hospitals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Nov 2017


Doctor with Patient

Ferguson Responsible for Health Failures, Must Release Deloitte Report

The Health Minister should release the report into the operations of the Tasmanian Health Service Executive.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Nov 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Mental Health Unit Rejected

The AMA leaves no room for doubt in their criticism of the Hodgman Liberal government’s plan to steamroll through a new acute mental health facility.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Nov 2017


Supreme Court, Hobart, Tasmania

Contempt of Court Risk Health Minister's Fault

Minister Ferguson has failed to properly resource the State's only secure mental health facility, the Wilfred Lopes Centre.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Oct 2017


Pills

ACT Pill Testing Will Save Lives

The ACT Government’s decision to allow free pill testing at the Spilt Milk festival will save lives.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Sep 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Issues at the Royal Hobart Hospital

In that last six days at the RHH there have been two category 4 escalations, four violent events and all elective surgeries have been cancelled.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  19 Sep 2017


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Royal Hobart Hospital - Psychiatric Medicine Accreditation

As we have just heard, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry has withdrawn their accreditation status from the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Aug 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ferguson's Broken Health System Legacy

Health Ferguson’s parroting of an unusually high influenza season this winter is an insult to the staff and patients at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Sep 2017


Doctor with Patient

Public Health Reform Desperately Needed Under Liberals

The Greens welcome the clear pathway presented through the Public Health Policy Reform plan announced by major health agencies today.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Sep 2017


Medicinal Cannabis

Greens Release Medicinal Cannabis Registration Scheme Policy Initiative

The Liberals' Controlled Access Scheme for medicinal cannabis begins tomorrow, but very few Tasmanians will be able to access it.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  31 Aug 2017


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Ferguson Must Address Psychiatric Care Shortage at the LGH

Last week the Royal Hobart Hospital Department of Psychiatric Medicine lost their RANZCP accreditation.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  15 Aug 2017


Ocean Waves

Strong Greens Franklin Ticket for State Election

The Tasmanian Greens will run a strong field of talented and committed candidates in Franklin in the upcoming State Election.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Aug 2017


Doctor with Patient

Labor Ignore Climate Change in Reshuffle

By ignoring climate change, both Labor and the Liberals dismiss humanity's biggest threat, and abrogate their responsibility to prepare Tasmania for the future.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  7 Aug 2017


Container Deposit Machine

Public Health Professional and Climate Educator Join Greens' Denison Ticket

The Tasmanian Greens will run a strong field of candidates in Denison in the upcoming State election.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Aug 2017


Drugs

Labor and Liberals Putting Politics Before Health on Drug Policy

Labor and the Liberals are ignoring the experts, and the evidence the ‘war on drugs’ has failed in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 Aug 2017


Drugs

Greens Call for Rethink on Drug Policy

Following yesterday’s release of the Community Legal Centres’ Report into drug treatment and law reform, the Greens are calling for a drug law reform package.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Aug 2017


Line of Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Labor and Liberals Ignore Health Cost of Pokies

Tasmanians lose $200 million a year to poker machines. They devastate families and destroy lives.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jul 2017


Wrest Point Casino, Federal Group, Tasmania

Three and Half Years' Silence from Ogilvie on Pokies

Ms Ogilvie has been silent about poker machines, and the serious harm they cause, for three and a half years.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  27 Jul 2017


Hospital Bed

Extra $220M to Health in Greens' Alternative Budget

The Greens’ Alternative Budget prioritises what Tasmanians most want, fixing the State’s health system - currently at breaking point.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2017


Hospital Bed

Greens Deliver Triple Bottom Line Alternative Budget

The Tasmanian Greens' Alternative Budget is a fully costed vision for the future that demonstrates it is possible to look after people.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 May 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ferguson's Band-aid Budget Won't Prevent RHH Crisis

There is nothing in the State Budget to prevent the imminent winter flu crisis, and subsequent overcrowding, at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 May 2017


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

A State Budget Bloated with Pork

The more you look at this Budget, the more cynical you become.  It’s very clear that it is designed to help the Liberals buy their way to the next election.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 May 2017


Green Economics

State Budget Response

Having slashed funding to essential services in their first Budget, now the Liberals are trying to repair some of the damage.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  25 May 2017


Medicinal Cannabis

Restricted Access to Medicinal Cannabis Scheme

The announcement that the medicinal cannabis Controlled Access Scheme will provide access for children with drug-resistant epilepsy is a positive step forward.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  23 May 2017


Ambulance, Interior

Lives at Risk if Ambulance Tasmania Funding Missing from State Budget

The median Tasmanian ambulance response time of 14.1 minutes is the worst in the country. It’s far too long for people who need critical life support.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 May 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Coroner Confirms RHH Under-Resourcing Putting Patient Lives at Risk

The Coronial inquest into the 2015 death of a Royal Hobart Hospital patient found it could have been prevented.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 May 2017


Doctor with Patient

Ferguson Must Develop Winter Crisis Management Plan for RHH

Last night in the Royal Hobart Hospital, 17 out of 27 patients were waiting for over 12 hours for a bed.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 May 2017


Doctor with Patient

Tasmanian Health Forgotten in Federal Budget

The gradual withdrawal of Commonwealth health funding over the last few years exposes the dire state of Tasmania’s public health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 May 2017


Hospital Bed

Joint Health Shows Need For An Emergency Winter Plan

The Joint Statement on Public Hospitals from all major Tasmanian health bodies shows the critical state of our public hospitals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Apr 2017


Drugs

Ferguson Must Fund Drug Health Programs in Budget

The ACIC's National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program Report, released over the weekend, is proof of the alarming level of ice use in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Mar 2017


Drugs

Hodgman Needs To Lead Drug Law Reform

The Australia 21 Report, authored by former Premiers and Police Commissioners, has called for tackling drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal one.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Mar 2017


Doctor with Patient

Elective Surgery Waiting Times Blowing Out

The most recent figures by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in their Elective Surgery Waiting Times 2015-16 report are terrifying.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Mar 2017


Hospital Bed

Ferguson Ignores LGH Expert Review

Today's announcement is just trying to distract from the core governance and organisational problems his expert review recommended he fix six months ago.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Mar 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Report on State's Sick Hospitals Ignored by Liberals

The report of the expert review on the State's two biggest hospitals was handed to the Health Minister last August.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Feb 2017


Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal Cannabis Users Still at Risk of Prosecution Under Liberals

The most recent medicinal cannabis announcement raised the hopes of Tasmanians who thought they might be able to more easily access treatment, legally.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  26 Feb 2017


Medicinal Cannabis

Tasmanians Still at Risk of Prosecution on Medicinal Cannabis

The Greens welcome the Federal Health Minister's medicinal cannabis announcement today.  This policy change is a step in the right direction.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  22 Feb 2017


Mental Health, Man on Couch

State Liberals Must Fight for Rural Alive and Well Funding

Many rural Tasmanians have survived depression and suicide thanks to the committed staff and volunteers at Rural Alive and Well.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  20 Feb 2017


Doctor with Patient

Palliative Care Budget Failure

The Liberals have delivered another serious blow to the public health service with the closure of Palliative Care Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Feb 2017


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

RHH "Exceeding Capacity" Due to Ferguson's Underfunding

Minister Ferguson has finally admitted the self-evident truth, that “emergency and admissions are exceeding capacity" at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Feb 2017


Medicinal Cannabis

Liberals' Medicinal Cannabis Mess

The continued confusion and anger of Tasmanians around access to medicinal cannabis is being exacerbated by mixed messages coming from the Government.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  24 Jan 2017


Doctor with Patient

State Liberals Must Save Rural Health Services

Federal Assistant Minister for Rural Health, David Gillespie, clearly has no idea what will happen when critical rural health services are discontinued.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Dec 2016


Drugs

What Has Mark Shelton Been Smoking?

The Greens' drug policy position is focused on harm minimisation and dealing with addiction through a health lens.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Nov 2016


Mental Health, Man on Couch

RHH Decant Leaves Psychiatric Unit Out in the Cold

The decant of the Psychiatric Unit at the Royal Hobart Hospital will drastically cut the quality of care for people in the greatest need.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Nov 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Hospital Decant Risks Patients' Safety

Senior clinical staff warned Minister Ferguson that the reduction in Medical Ward beds at the decant is a serious risk to patient safety.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Nov 2016


Doctor with Patient

Elective Surgeries at the Launceston General Hospital

We are aware of patients presenting to the emergency department at the LGH with no paperwork and no after-surgery care plan with infections and other issues.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Nov 2016


Doctor with Patient

Ferguson's LGH Elective Surgery Mess

The Health Minister today failed to explain why knee and hip surgery patients who were sent interstate weren't receiving adequate post-operative care.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  17 Nov 2016


Pills

Pill Testing to Save Young Tasmanian Lives

Last week 12 young people were hospitalised on the Gold Coast after consuming a drug they thought was ecstasy. Twenty-seven-year-old Ricky Stevens later died.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  25 Oct 2016


Pills

Pill Testing Could Save Tasmanian Lives

Police Minister, Rene Hidding, once again showed Tasmanians he would rather continue a failed "war on drugs" than reduce the risk of drug deaths.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Oct 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal Cannabis

Over the past two years, the Premier and Police minister have made a number of statements seeking to reassure Tasmanians who rely on medicinal cannabis.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Oct 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Protection Needed for Medicinal Cannabis Users

There are currently patients who face charges and convictions over their medical cannabis possession and use in lieu of the government controlled access scheme.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  12 Oct 2016


Hospital Bed

Ferguson Left Hospitals Under-Resourced, Running on Empty

Minister Ferguson ignored nurses, doctors, infectious disease specialists and health economists' warnings about the flu season and winter rush.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Oct 2016


Drugs

Health Minister Blames Former Government for Two Years of Inaction on Ice Epidemic

A dangerous increase in crystal methamphetamine use in Tasmania is now strongly suggestive of an epidemic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  20 Sep 2016


Doctor with Patient

Epilepsy Connect in Tasmania Invaluable

Epilepsy Connect has been funded as a pilot project to provide peer-to-peer telephone support for people living with epilepsy.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  13 Sep 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Liberals Should Emulate Poppy Industry for Medical Cannabis

The Poisons Amendment (Poppy Industry Reform) Bill separates the regulation of the poppy industry between health and primary industries.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  13 Sep 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Acute Crisis Care in Tasmanian Hospitals

I have noticed a couple of concerning things in the paediatric areas of the North West Regional Hospital and the Launceston General Hospital.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  25 Aug 2016


Drugs

Ice Use Needs Government-Wide Action

The Police Association’s concern about the increase in crimes against people in the last year should be taken seriously by the Government.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Aug 2016


Voluntary Assisted Dying, Hand on Hand

Health Minister Evasive on Palliative Care

The four-year Commonwealth funding for Palliative Care Tasmania ended in June.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  18 Aug 2016


Doctor with Patient

Palliative Care Plan Needed

During Question Time today, Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, was unable to outline his plan to address the desperate palliative care funding gap in Tasmania.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Aug 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Ferguson Admits RHH Failure

In Parliament today, the Health Minister admitted the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment will be delayed until mid-2019.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Aug 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

RHH Falling Apart Under Ferguson's Watch

The Health Minister's comment that the possibility of a post-surgery patient being exposed to asbestos was "regrettable" is insulting.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Aug 2016


Silhouette of Man with Cigarette in Hand

Liberals' Health Plan Toothless and Weak

The Health Minister's "bold plan" for Tasmania to have the best health by 2025 is weak, toothless and myopic.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Jul 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

RHH Asbestos Questions Need Answers

The news that 40 staff may have been exposed to asbestos at the Royal Hobart Hospital is extremely concerning. We sincerely hope no staff have been exposed.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Jul 2016


Silhouette of Man with Cigarette in Hand

Business Over Health, Ferguson Must Resign as Minister

Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, has walked away from the government’s plan to take strong action to raise the legal age for smoking.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Jul 2016


Doctor with Patient

Ballooning Locum Costs in Hospitals

Health Minister Michael Ferguson is desperately trying to plug the problems in the health system by forking out a fortune on locums.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Jul 2016


Ambulance, Interior

Ambulance Tasmania Pay Deal Welcome

The Greens welcome the news that our paramedics will now be paid appropriately for the critical role they play.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Jul 2016


Doctor with Patient

Routine Elective Surgery Funds Going To Interstate Hospitals

Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, has been flying patients to private hospitals in Victoria for routine surgery to try and reduce the elective waiting lists.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jul 2016


Green Economics

State Budget: Address in Reply

The Greens have discussed our energy strategy on numbers of occasions in this House since we tabled it early this year.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2016


Green Economics

State Budget: Address in Reply

It continues a long-standing tradition of the Tasmanian Greens to present an alternative vision for the future of Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  31 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

New Money The Only Fix For Chronic Underfunding

The strong criticism today by the Australian Medical Association of the state health budget cuts is a serious warning that can’t be ignored.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Jun 2016


Doctor with Patient

Health Minister Needs to Stop Blaming Others over LGH

The Health Minister is delusional if he believes the situation at the Launceston General Hospital is not about funding and resourcing.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  21 Jun 2016


Silhouette of Man with Cigarette in Hand

Evidence Based Solution Needed for Reducing Smoking Rates

We know smoking tobacco is the largest cause of preventable death and disease in Australia and it has an incredibly major impact on the health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Jun 2016


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Health Minister Ferguson Still Blaming Others for Emergency Department Chaos

The public record states that 9 out of 11 specialists from the Launceston General Hospital's Emergency Department have resigned. 

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Jun 2016


Doctor with Patient

Launceston in Health Crisis

Nine of eleven specialists and six senior nursing staff have resigned, retired or significantly reduced their hours.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  15 Jun 2016


Drugs

Ideology in the Way of Preventative Health

Minister Ferguson has put his personal ideology in the way of preventive health measures in this year's Budget.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Jun 2016


Hospital Bed

State Budget 2016: No Additional Funding for Health

The Minister for Health made what can only be construed as some misleading statements in the House yesterday about the question I asked him in question time.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2016


Pills

Hidding Won't Commit to Keeping Our Young People Safe

The evidence shows pill testing will keep our young people safe from harmful drugs and it has the support of the Police Association.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2016


Green Economics

Greens Deliver for Northern Tasmania

Liberal backbencher Sarah Courtney MP's claims that Greens have forgotten northern Tasmania in our Alternative Budget is rubbish.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  1 Jun 2016


Pills

Liberals' Blind Refusal to Protect Young People

The Police Minister, Rene Hidding, today refused out of hand to consider pill testing measures at festivals as a way of protecting young people from harm.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jun 2016


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Greens Alternative Budget Invests in Preventative Health

Instead of cutting the Health budget, and taking money out of emergency departments, the Greens would reinstate frontline health staff.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2016


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

$18M Cut Hidden in Health Budget

The Liberals were forced to patch up last Budget's under-spend, and they haven't learned last year's lesson.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2016


Green Economics

Tasmanian Greens' Alternative Budget

We recognise that genuine planning for the 21st century requires a long term vision and the courage to make bold decisions to drive change.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

State Budget 2016: Health System Gutted of Funding

In the policy and parameter statements in budget paper 1 for this year there is a policy item for Tasmanian Health Service additional funding of $10 million.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  31 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

No Commitment from Health Minister to Tasmanian Sex Workers

Minister Ferguson has cut funding to the Tasmanian Sex Worker Project, a frontline preventive health investment that has been running for a decade.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  25 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

Ferguson Hiding on Scarlet Alliance Funding

Michael Ferguson today claimed it was a Departmental decision to cut funding to Scarlet Alliance, and denied he had anything to do with it.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

Cut to Scarlet Alliance a National Shame

The Health Minister's decision to cut government funding to the Tasmanian Sex Worker Project is at odds with preventive health policy.  

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 May 2016


Doctor with Patient

Government Action Needed on Young Smokers

Evidence smoking rates in young Tasmanians have risen by 6.7% in the last 3 years is very concerning.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 May 2016


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Health Pincer Movement Cuts Funding

Tasmania's hopes of extra health funding to make up for what we lost under Prime Minister Abbott haven't been realised.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 May 2016


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Federal Budget Duds Tasmanians

The first Turnbull Budget has left the vast majority of Tasmanians out in the cold.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 May 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Liberals at Odds With Reality on Medicinal Cannabis Use

The Government announced their plans for a controlled access scheme for medicinal cannabis over the weekend.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Apr 2016


Risdon Brook Reservoir, Tasmania

Old Parties Deny Tasmanians Opportunity for Best Practice Water Management

Both Liberal and Labor parties have refused to support a Greens' move to establish a Parliamentary inquiry into water management in Tasmania.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  27 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

Health Minister Confirms Rural Health Outreach Funding to End in June

The Liberal Federal Government has committed to slashing the rural health outreach program by approximately two-thirds.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  26 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

Allied Health Loss for Tasman, Dover and East Coast

Several regional Tasmanian communities are set to lose Allied Health services from July 1, as the Federal Liberal government continues to cut health funding.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Apr 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Change of Heart on Medicinal Cannabis Welcome

The Premier's announcement that Tasmania will legalise access to medicinal cannabis is long awaited and very welcome.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

Liberal Gouging Responsible for Tassie's Health Mess

The combined effect of the Federal and State Liberal governments has meant a loss of hundreds of millions of dollars from Tasmania's health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Apr 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Hodgman Should Follow Andrews on Medicinal Cannabis Now

The Victorian government have shown us what true leadership looks like when it comes to medicinal cannabis.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  13 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

Health "Fix" Meaningless without Money

Staff in the public health system are unlikely to be satisfied with Minister Ferguson’s announcement of his planned “fix” for our broken health system.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

COAG Let Down for Tasmania

Tasmania has been seriously let down at COAG by both the Prime Minister and Premier Hodgman.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Apr 2016


Doctor with Patient

Stop Shifting Health Blame, Just Fix It, Minister

The events of the last couple of days in our hospitals are inexcusable and they shame us all.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Mar 2016


Bushfire, Burned Forest

State of the State Address in Reply

On behalf of the Tasmanian Greens MPs, I pay respect to the palawa/pakana people of Tasmania, to their treasured elders, past and present.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2016


Doctor with Patient

$27M Bandaid for Health

The government's plan to shift over $27M from the Consolidated Fund into health is clear evidence of a system that needs more support than it's getting.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2016


Medicinal Cannabis

Federal Medical Cannabis Bill Very Welcome

Tasmania is one step closer to being able to lawfully cultivate medical cannabis for therapeutic use.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  10 Feb 2016


Bushfire, Burned Forest

It is Time to Recall Parliament

The Premier should recall Parliament to enable informed debate about these matters of importance to Tasmanians.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Feb 2016


Doctor with Patient

Hospitals Need Staff, Not Just New Theatres

Waits time in emergency and for elective surgery in our hospitals is skyrocketing and Minister Ferguson can only fix it by putting on more doctors and nurses.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  31 Jan 2016


Doctor with Patient

Liberals Fail National Hospital Report Card

The AMA Public Hospital Report Card is a shocking record of the Hodgman government’s mismanagement of our hospitals.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jan 2016


Doctor with Patient

Greens Welcome Medical Cannabis MoU

The Greens welcome the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Tasmanian and New South Wales governments. It's about time.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  10 Dec 2015


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Tasmania Report Presents Multiple Challenges for the State

The TCCI 'Tasmania Report 2015' is a welcome, evidence-based contribution to the debate about how we, as a state, improve our economic self sufficiency.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Dec 2015


Doctor with Patient

No Room for Cuts in Health

The Minister’s axing of 80 full-time positions in the health service is completely unexpected and raises grave concerns about the impact on patients' health.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Dec 2015


Hospital Bed

Smoke and Mirrors in Our Hospitals

The government’s proposal to limit nursing shifts to a maximum of 12 hours will not improve the amount of double-shifts being worked around the state.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Nov 2015


Doctor with Patient

Explanation of $100K THS Recruitment Bill Needed

The THS has had an interim CEO in place for more than four months, and the recruitment process for the permanent CEO is still not finalised.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Nov 2015


Doctor with Patient

Health System Needs More Beds

Launceston General Hospital patients are once more feeling the brunt of the government's health cuts.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Sep 2015


Doctor with Patient

Appointments Needed in Health

Concerns raised by the AMA’s Dr Tim Greenaway about key health leadership positions need to be addressed by Minister Ferguson as soon as possible.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Sep 2015


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Sound Proofing Needed for Theatre Success

Construction of a helipad on the roof of the Royal Hobart Hospital and its potential lifesaving capacity is wholeheartedly welcomed by the Greens.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  26 Aug 2015


Doctor with Patient

Concessions for Lifesaving Equipment

Madam Speaker, I want to raise an issue of concern to all Tasmanians who rely on concessions to be able to affordably use lifesaving equipment.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  19 Aug 2015


Hospital Bed

LGH Woes a Symptom of Health System in Crisis

The Health Minister needs to take personal responsibility for the enormous and unsustainable pressure being felt by both the RHH and the LGH.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Aug 2015


Parliament House, Tasmania

Rosalie Woodruff MP Inaugural Speech

I am proud to be the first woman to represent the Greens in the seat of Franklin. I note with pride that the proportion of women in this house is now 44%.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  20 Aug 2015


Gender Equality

Rosalie Woodruff New Greens Member for Franklin

The Tasmanian Greens Party Room is delighted that Dr Rosalie Woodruff has been elected on countback to fill Senator-designate, Nick McKim’s seat in Franklin.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Aug 2015


Doctor with Patient

Expensive Advertising Comes at the Cost of Public Health

Michael Ferguson cannot possibly justify spending taxpayer dollars on an advertising campaign for his as-yet-unrealised, unfunded health reform White Paper.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Jun 2015


Doctor with Patient

Health Reform Direction Sound but Where are the Dollars?

The Greens want to see as much of the politics taken out of the health debate as possible and that is why we have publicly supported the reform direction.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jun 2015


Medicinal Cannabis

Government Inaction on Medical Cannabis

Police Minister Rene Hidding has admitted that the Government has rejected key recommendations from the parliamentary Committee report into medicinal cannabis.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Jun 2015


Green Economics

Budget Reply Speech

While the Liberals have been slapping themselves on the back about what a terrific Budget it is, it has been roundly condemned by the community sector.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  3 Jun 2015


Risdon Brook Reservoir, Tasmania

Liberals Wash Hands of Responsibility for Water and Sewerage Infrastructure

Not one of TasWater's 80 treatment plants meet modern standards and communities across Tasmania are facing contaminated water supplies.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Jun 2015


Risdon Brook Reservoir, Tasmania

Water Quality in Towns

Across Tasmania there are communities who are being told not to drink their water because it is not safe or to boil it before drinking.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  4 Jun 2015


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Adolescent and Youth Mental Health Services

Mental health services for young Tasmanians remain the most poorly resourced in the country.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  3 Jun 2015


Mental Health, Man on Couch

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Remains Critically Under Resourced

Tasmania's youth mental health services remain the most poorly resourced in the country.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Jun 2015


Air View of Houses

Liberal Budget Repackages Old Money for Disadvantaged Tasmanians

The Government is trying to deceive disadvantaged Tasmanians into believing there’s something of substance for them in this year’s State Budget.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 May 2015


Doctor with Patient

Liberal Bandaid for North-West Health

After months of prevaricating, the Federal Liberal Government has now announced just two years of funding to the Mersey Hospital.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 May 2015


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Federal Budget - Health

Last night’s Federal Budget has failed Tasmania’s health system by locking in funding cuts which will compromise the success of much needed reforms.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 May 2015


Royal Hobart Hospital, Emergency Department Entrance

Elective Surgery Waiting Lists at the RHH

One year into the job and Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, has presided over a massive blowout in the elective surgery waiting list.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Apr 2015


Drugs

National Ice Taskforce

One million dollars invested in saving lives from ice would be money far better spent.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Apr 2015


Hospital Bed

Health White Paper Response

Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, is to be commended on the quality of the exposure draft of the White Paper on Health which he released yesterday.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Apr 2015


Drugs

Health Minister Missing in Action

Minister Ferguson could not point to a single concrete action he or the government have taken to address the escalating issue of crystal methamphetamine.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  19 Mar 2015


Drugs

Strategy Needed to Tackle Ice

It is now more than four months since ABC Four Corners exposed the growing and insidious use of Ice in Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Mar 2015


Doctor with Patient

Paramedics Left Out Despite TIC Determination

Last year’s Budget papers showed that almost $7 million was spent in the first half of last year on fly-in, fly-out locum doctors in the North West alone.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Feb 2015


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

Ferguson All Talk and No Action

Minister Ferguson has so far done a lot of talking about health reform, lowering elective surgery waiting lists and delivering a modern Royal Hobart Hospital.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Jan 2015


Doctor with Patient

Release Hospital Treasury Advice

Minister Ferguson has an obligation to release Treasury's analysis of the proposed Cenotaph hospital.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Dec 2014


Doctor with Patient

Greenfields RHH Hospital

We have seen many unforseen issues with the redevelopment of the current RHH site, making the new greensfields proposal worthy of serious consideration.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Dec 2014


Drugs

Ice Drug Review Response

Health Minister Michael Ferguson is failing in his duty of care to the health of Tasmanians.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Nov 2014


Hospital Bed

Straight Answers Needed on Oatlands Hospital

The Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, will fail to convince the community of Oatlands that their Multi Purpose Health Centre is safe.

Kim Booth  |  Media Release  |  30 Oct 2014


Doctor with Patient

Regional Health Services

The Midlands Multi-Purpose Health Centre provides crucial health care for local Midlands residents.

Kim Booth  |  Media Release  |  29 Oct 2014


Doctor with Patient

Liberals Cut More Health Services

A local campaign to save the Midlands Multi-purpose Health Centre at Oatlands from slated budget cuts is underway.

Kim Booth  |  Media Release  |  24 Oct 2014


Drugs

Beat Ice and Save Lives

Last night's Four Corners program revealed the devastation or Ice is wreaking on individuals and families in North and North West Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Oct 2014


Doctor with Patient

Solarium Ban Action Needed

The Liberal’s backflip on the tripartite agreement to ban the use of solariums by 31 December this year leaves Tasmania behind the rest of the nation.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Oct 2014


Hospital Bed

Federal Elective Surgery Money Won't Fix Problem

The announcement of a $23.4 million funding allocation to Tasmania’s public hospitals is welcome but it’s political smoke and mirrors.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Aug 2014


Doctor with Patient

Hodgman Regime Attacks Workers' Rights

The Hodgman regime has tried to restrict the rights of nurses and midwives to better understand the impact of the public sector wage freeze.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Aug 2014


Medicinal Cannabis

No Formal Poppy Advice

Minister Rockliff has been exposed misleading the public over the extent of poppy industry concerns about a medicinal cannabis trial in Tasmania.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  20 Aug 2014


Medicinal Cannabis

Medicinal Cannabis Inquiry Submissions Due

Tasmanians are being urged to lodge a submission with the Legislative Council Parliamentary Committee Inquiry which closes tomorrow.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Aug 2014


Doctor with Patient

Health Funding and GST

Michael Ferguson needs to reassure Tasmanians that every dollar allocated to health this year in the Commonwealth GST distribution will be spent on health.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Aug 2014


Hospital Bed

THO Reforms Underway

The Minister's plan to base the new Tasmanian Health Service in Launceston is a serious mistake that smacks of parochial politics.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Jul 2014


Doctor with Patient

THO Reform

Any reduction in the current three Tasmanian health Organisations to one, must be based on good public policy and improved health outcomes.

Kim Booth  |  Media Release  |  8 Jul 2014


Doctor with Face Mask

Rationalise Tasmanian Health Organisations

the latest AIHW report of public hospital performance in Tasmania reinforces the insanity of the Abbott Government's massive cuts to health.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jun 2014


Doctor with Patient

Federal GP co-payments

The silence from the Health Minister, Michael Ferguson, over the Abbot government’s planned $7 GP co-payment will dismay many Tasmanians.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 May 2014


Doctor with Patient

Take Responsibility for Health

Minister Ferguson is creating uncertainty and fear within his Department and further damaging morale as Health faces tens of millions in lost funding.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  24 May 2014