From April 1 this year, a new dedicated item for heart health checks will support GPs and patients in assessing cardiovascular risk. Heart disease is Australia’s biggest killer, with one person dying of cardiovascular disease every 12 minutes.

Applications are now open for the Community Heritage Grants 2019, administered by the National Library of Australia.

This is a federally funded grants program which has been operating since 1994. It offers grants of up to $15,000 to assist in preserving cultural heritage collections of national significance. Not-for-profit organisations such as historical societies, regional museums, public libraries and Indigenous and migrant community groups in my electorate are encouraged to apply.

This round closes on May 6, 2019. For more information see www.nla.gov.au/awards-and-grants/chg. 

Coalition Government health reforms are making private health insurance simpler and more affordable. By using four simple tiers of cover, people will be able to understand what they are covered for, make comparisons, and choose the right health cover for their health needs.

This will deliver discounts for younger Australians of up to 10%, greater access for mental health services, and greater travel and accommodation benefits for people living regional and rural Australia – all great wins for the Parkes electorate. In comparison, Labor’s attack on private health insurance will increase the cost of cover by an additional 16%.