Angie Bell MP

Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education

Shadow Minister for Youth

Federal Member for Moncrieff

Ross Vasta MP

Federal Member for Bonne

Federal LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, has announced a Dutton LNP Government will deliver a $2.5 million commitment towards an upgrade of Hibiscus Stadium in Mt Gravatt, to transform the venue into a world-class sporting facility.

The upgrade will include the installation of four additional basketball courts, a seating area for 1500 people, community training rooms, and a function room catering for over 100 people.

“Hibiscus stadium is a hive of sporting, economic and social activity, and is valued not only by Bonner locals but Southeast Queensland,” Mr Vasta said.

“Hibiscus Stadium is an asset to our community. This upgrade will give local residents access to modern multipurpose spaces, while also helping to foster the next generation of athletes.

“We’re committed to ensuring that Hibiscus Stadium can continue to support a wide range of users, from grassroots sporting clubs and schools to community groups and event organisers.

“These upgrades are about creating long-term infrastructure that improves access, encourages participation, and supports the development of local talent.

“I’m proud to support a project that reflects the needs and aspirations of the Mt Gravatt community and helps build a stronger, more connected future for our region.

Shadow Minister for Youth, Angie Bell MP, said she is proud to be able to support young people with their health.

“Getting more kids and adults playing and watching sport is important for mental and physical health. $2.5 million would go a very long,” Ms Bell said.

Hibiscus Stadium Project Director, David Derwin, said “This commitment is a great start to continue the legacy upgrade we are looking for. It will get more kids playing sport, with the bigger picture of an extension out the back.”

General Manager of Basketball Queensland, Todd Flahey said, “The commitment is outstanding because Basketball Queensland is currently 223 courts short.

“We have 10,000 kids sitting on the waiting list, who don’t have access to sport. Funding like this is fundamental to our sport, and we love that the LNP is making this commitment because it’s going to be a game changer for children in the local area.”

Only the LNP has a plan to invest in our community facilities get Australia back on track.

Federal LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, has committed $540,000 for the Queensland Koala Society to build a Koala Kindy, under a Dutton LNP Government.

“Australian wildlife is unique and iconic, and those dedicated to preserving our fauna must be supported,” Mr Vasta said.

“The Queensland Koala Society is well known for its important work to rescue vulnerable animals, ensuring they can return to the wild.

“This funding will go towards constructing a pre-release enclosure, which will give young, rehabilitated koalas the best possible chance of surviving in the wild.

“This facility will not only help boost the koala population numbers in Bonner but will also be a reminder of the importance and value of local conservation efforts.

“Koalas are a national treasure, and without the work of the dedicated Queensland Koala Society volunteers, their survival as a species would be under threat in Brisbane.

Angela Christodoulou, Co-Founder of the Queensland Koala Society, said “The Koala Kindy will serve as an important phase of the rehabilitation process.

“We will build a large secure enclosure over a portion of the plantation to provide protection for joey koalas for intense care and preparation for release. Once the rehabilitation of the koala has passed stringent authority checks it can then be released in the wild.”

“The Koala Kindy and Education Centre will boost the understanding and awareness of koalas and other Australian wildlife rescue and rehabilitation matters.”

ENDS

Senator the Hon Anne Ruston

Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care

Shadow Minister for Sport

Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate

Ross Vasta MP

Federal Member for Bonner

A Dutton Coalition Government will deliver an Urgent Care Clinic for Carindale and the surrounding community as part of the Liberal National Party’s plan to fix Labor’s health crisis.

Under the Albanese Labor Government, it has never been harder or more expensive to see a GP. As a result, 1.5 million Australians avoided seeing a GP last financial year because they just could not afford it under Labor.

This is having a serious impact on already under-pressure hospitals.

LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP said that the local community has been significantly impacted by Labor’s health crisis, with hundreds of thousands fewer bulk billed services delivered in Bonner under Labor.

“Bonner’s GP bulk billing rate has fallen by 14.2 per cent since Labor came to power, and local families are worried about getting in to see a GP and being able to afford it,” Mr Vasta said.

“Local families are already struggling with the cost of living and now they are paying on average 45% more today than three years ago to see a GP.

“I will never accept a situation where members of our community can’t access the healthcare they need.”

“That’s why I have secured an Urgent Care Clinic in Bonner under an elected LNP Government. This will ensure access to bulk billed urgent healthcare, it will take pressure off local hospitals, and it will put downward pressure on local medical costs at a time when that is desperately needed.”

Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Senator Anne Ruston said that the LNP was focused on ensuring all Australians have timely and affordable access to a doctor.

“We recognise the urgent need for better access to affordable health services,” Shadow Minister Ruston said.

“The Liberals will deliver Urgent Care Clinics as they were intended — focused on relieving pressure on local hospitals and providing real access to bulk billed urgent healthcare.”

To read more about how the Liberals and Nationals will deliver quality healthcare, visit liberal.org.au/our-plan/health.

Federal LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, has announced a Dutton LNP Government will deliver $540,000 to upgrade the Wynnum Vikings Australian Football Club’s facilities.

The funding will deliver critical upgrades including modern lighting, a digital scoreboard, and new goal nets, addressing the club’s long-standing infrastructure challenges and unlocking greater participation across all levels of the game.

Mr Vasta said the Wynnum Vikings have been a cornerstone of Bayside sport and community life, with generations of local players calling the club home.

“This commitment is about building a stronger, more inclusive future. The Wynnum Vikings deserve a facility to match their passion, commitment, and community spirit,” Mr Vasta said.

“Currently, the club’s lighting is not suitable for any night games or training sessions, significantly restricting opportunities for players and reducing field access for the wider community.

“A Dutton LNP Government will be committed to increasing the capacity for wider community usage of the local sporting facilities.

Wynnum Vikings Club President, Brenden Hodgkins, said the club has been neglected and desperately needed new lighting.

“Getting new lighting will open doors for young girls to continue into senior football,” Mr Hodgkins said.

“We did have a female team, back in the ‘80s, but they dissolved fairly quickly. We’re currently in the rebuilding stage, making sure we are getting everything right, off the field, to continue success on the field.”

“Funding from Ross Vasta and an LNP Government would mean the world for our club, to be able to lift us back up off the canvas and get female footy where it should be.”

This commitment is part of the LNP’s plan to strengthen our local communities and to get Australia back on track. To read more about our plan, visit https://www.lnp.au/ontrack.

Vasta’s $1 Million Commitment for Mount Gravatt Creative Community

Federal LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, has announced a $1 million commitment to expand the Mt Gravatt Lapidary Society under a Dutton LNP Government, supporting a growing creative community and ensuring locals have the space to connect through a shared passion.

“For over 50 years, the Mt Gravatt Lapidary Society has been a welcoming home for members to explore lapidary, mineralogy, and silversmithing. The club has become one of the largest of its kind in Queensland, but current facilities are stretched to the limit. The time for expansion is now,” Mr Vasta said.

“The Mt Gravatt Lapidary Society is a shining example of how the arts can bring people together. This is a space where creativity meets community, where skills are passed down, friendships are formed, and people find a sense of belonging.

“This expansion includes a new 485 square metre building connected by a breezeway to the existing site. It will allow the club to run more classes, house additional equipment, and host larger events.

“The new space will also relieve overcrowding and noise issues, while allowing the club to finally bring its precious displays and historical records back onsite, where they can be appreciated by all.

“I have had strong feedback from the community on the proposed expansion, which is why I will continue campaigning for this vital project as part of my broader commitment to supporting grassroots initiatives across Bonner.”

President of Mount Gravatt Lapidary, Simon Perren said, “We have such a varied age-group participants, from 10 to 95.

“The upgrade will offer the space to double the club’s membership, build more equipment, and host international guests.

“It’s not just about craft, but also mentorship, having a conversation, working collaboratively, and supporting each other.

This commitment is part of the LNP’s plan to strengthen our local communities and get Australia back on track. To read more about our plan, visit https://www.liberal.org.au/our-plan.

ENDS

Bigger, Better, More Inclusive: Vasta Backs Woodies’ Expansion

Ross Vasta, Federal Member for Bonner, has committed that a LNP Government will deliver $540,000 for the Bayside Woodturners and Woodcrafters to undergo a shed expansion and a disability upgrade.

“The Bayside Woodturners and Woodcrafters are about far more than manual labour.

“The Woodies have fostered a space that nurtures creativity, learning, and connection for men and women, which is more important than ever, particularly amongst the older generation,” Mr Vasta said.

“It has been exciting to see the Club’s membership base grow so rapidly, however new facilities are desperately needed.

“The construction of a new building, adjacent to the existing workshop, is vital to ensure the safety, comfort, and sustainability of the club’s activities for those with disabilities.

“The Bayside Woodturners and Woodcrafters are of incredible value, and should be an accessible, safe and welcoming space for all locals to find community and build relationships.”

President of the Bayside Woodturners and Woodcrafters, Chris May, said, “This will make an enormous difference for our members with disabilities.

“The funding will help us expand the meeting area, build accessible footpaths, as well as safe access, carparking and toilets for disabled members.”

Only the LNP has a plan to upgrade our local facilities and get Australia back on track.

ENDS

LNP Lights Up the Future of Cricket in Bonner!

Federal LNP Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, has announced that a Dutton LNP Government will deliver $1 million for a critical lighting upgrade at the Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club.

“The club’s current facilities at Bill Albury Oval (Carmichael Park) lack sufficient lighting, which limits training, competitions, and community engagement outside of daylight hours,” Mr Vasta said.

“The lighting upgrade will provide the infrastructure needed to support growing junior, female, veterans, and multicultural cricket competitions.

“The upgrade will also support the efforts of Queensland Cricket and Cricket Australia by offering a high-quality venue capable of hosting high-performance matches and additional community events, especially approaching the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

“The Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club is essential in fostering community spirit in the surrounding suburbs.

“This lighting upgrade is a much-needed investment to ensure the Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club continues to thrive. Improved lighting means better training facilities, safer conditions, and greater opportunities for players of all ages.

“Investing in local sport is about supporting a growing community.

“With improved facilities, the Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club will continue to be a hub for local sporting talent, community engagement, and a brighter future for all who play and support the game.”

CEO of Queensland Cricket, Terry Svenson, said “Our core purpose at Queensland Cricket is to promote and grow the game. This is a chance to have elite cricket played in Wynnum-Manly, as we move to hopefully have cricket at the Olympics in 2032.”

President of the Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club, Graham Mapri, said “Being able to light this facility will not only enable cricket to be played at all times throughout the week, but also provide opportunities for our veteran, female, and multicultural teams to further embrace the sport.”

This commitment is part of the LNP’s plan to strengthen our local communities and get Australia back on track.

ENDS

SENATOR THE HON ANNE RUSTON

Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care

Shadow Minister for Sport

Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate

ROSS VASTA MP

Federal Member for Bonner

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Bulk Billing has Collapsed in Bonner under Labor

It has never been harder or more expensive for the people of Bonner to see a doctor than under the Albanese Labor Government. Data from the Department of Health continues to confirm the severity of this primary care crisis.

According to new data released by the Department, access to GP bulk billing has fallen in Bonner by 14.2% to 67.5% in 2023-24 under Labor, in comparison to 81.8% in 2021-22 under the Coalition.

This has resulted in 288,320 less bulk billed GP visits across Bonner under Labor in 2023-24, compared to the Coalition’s last year in government.

Shadow Minister for Health, Senator Anne Ruston said that despite all of Labor’s promises, grandstanding and lies, the data makes it clear that Medicare has only been weakened under the Albanese Government’s watch.

“It is seriously concerning that Australians living in Bonner have had their access to free GP appointments sent backwards, particularly in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis,” Shadow Minister Ruston said.

“Less Australians are getting access to bulk billing under Labor, which means they are having to pay record high out-of-pocket costs to see a doctor because of this government’s mismanagement.

“We know that this is forcing more and more Australians to avoid seeing a doctor because they just cannot afford it. This is a choice no one should have to make.

“Instead of addressing this crisis, Labor’s focus is on lying to Australians about Medicare. On the other hand, the Coalition is focused on how to restore bulk billing and get our healthcare system back on track.”

Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta, said that it is incredibly disappointing to know our Bonner community isn’t receiving the access to healthcare needed.

“The health of locals will always be a top priority.”

“There is nothing more important than ensuring we are a healthy and active society, which is why I will continue to fight for access to quality healthcare for all Australians.”

Only a Dutton Coalition Government will fix Labor’s primary care crisis to ensure the people of Bonner have timely and affordable access to a GP.

ENDS

Media Contacts:

Ruston: Sophia Marsh-Corbin | 0408 350 117
Vasta: Sarah Crawford | 0431 435 362

 Ross Vasta MP, Federal Member for Bonner, has committed $1,330,000 to encourage more young people, especially women and girls, to participate in football at AC Carina.

The Fursden Road club is a safe and enjoyable second home for many young and old footballers, in the local area.

AC Carina FC are currently turning away keen players, as they do not have the appropriate facilities to keep up with the high demand.

In the aftermath of the 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup, AC Carina experienced significant growth in female participation, however unfortunately the club does not have appropriate change room facilities to cater for all participants.

The upgrade will also include better lighting, complete concrete pavements, covered seating and perimeter fencing.

Ross Vasta MP said everyone in our local community should have an opportunity to safely participate in community sports.

“Sadly, clubs in Bonner are having to turn away players as they simply don’t have enough facilities to accommodate greater participation.

“That’s why I am fighting for these upgrades for AC Carina Football Club, so they can meet the demand, and more people can play sports in a safe and supportive environment,” he said.

AC Carina Club President Josh McKee said the upgrade will be life-changing for the club.

“It will allow us to create a much safer and up to date facility and be something for the local community to be proud of,” he said.

The upgrades will enable AC Carina to focus on their growth, and catering for all prospective players in the local community.

Media Contact – Sarah Crawford 0431 325 362               

THE HON SUSSAN LEY MP

DEPUTY LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY, SKILLS AND TRAINING
SHADOW MINISTER FOR SMALL AND FAMILY BUSINESS

SHADOW MINISTER FOR WOMEN

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR FARRER

ROSS VASTA MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BONNER 

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Labor’s Disappointing “National Small Business Strategy”

The Albanese Government has released a “National Small Business Strategy” claiming it as a “national first”.

However, despite Labor’s spin, what Labor has produced amounts to an insult to millions of small businesses across Australia.

There is not a single new policy or measure in Labor’s new so-called “National Small Business Strategy”.

A third of the strategy is made up of cover pages, artwork and photos, with another third taken up by small business statistics and case studies of existing policies already being delivered by state governments.

The document does not even use images of Australian small businesses.

It includes multiple images sourced from stock files of a New Jersey bakery in the United States of America, two carpenters that featured in a Bank of America innovation campaign and a stock image of chef featured on Pew’s Demographic Overview of Illinois Secure Choice Program Population.

The Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP, called on Labor to tell how much this strategy will cost taxpayers and why it is filled with stock photos of American businesses.

“My advice to Bonner small businesses is don’t bother printing off this strategy because it’s not worth the paper it’s printed on.”

“I think it is pretty disappointing that Labor would try to peddle this strategy as containing anything to help small businesses.

The Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Small and Family Business, Sussan Ley, called on Labor to come clean on how much this “strategy” cost the taxpayer and why it is filled with stock photos of Americans.

“Calling something a strategy does not make it a strategy, there is not a single new policy measure or intervention that will help Australia’s small business sector which is being smashed by Labor’s failures.”

“Anthony Albanese needs to fess up about why this’ ‘National Small Business Strategy’ has clearly been pulled together using stock images of foreign businesses, is this the sort of effort and attention Labor thinks our small businesses deserve?”

Just one page out of 62 describes anything close to new commitments from the Albanese Government to Australia’s struggling small businesses.

The only commitments in the strategy amount to: “Continuing the biannual Small Business Ministers’ Meetings”; “working together”; and “Regularly examining our focus areas”.

Labor’s so-called “National Small Business Strategy” is a waste of Australia’s taxpayer funds.

It contains more space on images of stock photos of American business owners than it does on making commitments and setting out concrete actions to help Australian businesses.

This is yet another example of the widespread waste across the public service under the Albanese Government and underscores that Labor does not understand small business.

It also comes as Australian small businesses remain in crisis because of Labor’s economic failures.

This comes as business failures accelerate under Anthony Albanese, 76 per cent of small and medium sized businesses say their costs will go up in 2025 and 71 per cent expect energy prices to keep rising.

Official ASIC insolvency data shows there have been more than 27,000 business insolvencies since the Albanese Government was elected and confirmed the December 2024 quarter was the worst quarter for business insolvencies on record with 3,852 businesses going to the wall.

[ENDS]

Media contacts:

Deputy Leader’s Office: Liam Jones 0431 000 583

Ross Vasta MP: Sarah Crawford 0431 435 362