Central Coast based Senator Deborah O’Neill has been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health, and Shadow Assistant Minister for Innovation.
Senator O’Neill said she wished to thank Mr Bill Shorten, Federal Opposition Leader, for giving her the opportunity to work with Ms Julie Collins in Mental Health and Sen Kim Carr in Innovation to advance fair and equitable policies in these areas. “Labor’s vision for longterm mental health reform depends on strong national leadership that puts mental health back on the priority list,” Sen O’Neill said.
“Labor believes an integrated, cross sector, whole of government approach to mental health policy is the only way to ensure that all Australians who need extra support are able to receive it,” she said. Sen O’Neil said she would hold the Turnbull Government accountable for their cuts to health and the pressure that puts on Australians living with mental illness and their loved ones who care for them. “Labor believes a smarter Australia begins with implementing smart innovation policy,” she said.
“Innovation is central to all Labor does, from boosting our national economy through new venture capital and startups, to increasing focus on STEM in our schools and universities to ensure that our young people can get the jobs of the future.” Sen O’Neill said she looked forward to working with businesses and industry, scientists, technology experts, and all those with a vision, to build a smarter and more competitive Australia. She said she was determined to work with her colleagues in the Shadow Ministry to further strengthen Labor’s Mental Health and Innovation policy platforms, and ensure a community voice guides these policy areas.
Media release, Sep 13, 2016 Rhys Zorro, office of Senator Deborah O’Neill