The Prime Minister has pledged $433 million over five years to set up 50 emergency medical centres across the country in order to ease pressure on hospitals. The move echoes a similiar pledge by the ALP in a "me too as well" policy pilfer by the coalition.
Howard said: "We do need a more family-friendly alternative environment because there are many situations where the treatment does not have to take place in the accident and emergency department."
The plan would see start-up grants of $1.25 million and annual operating grants of $350,000 a year provided to 24-hour clinics. Late night clinics would receive $750,000 in start up fudning and $100,000 per year.
He announced the changes after a refreshingly protest-free morning walk, strategically shifted from the Yarra River to the Flemington Racetrack.
Watch Howard canter around the 3200m Melbourne Cup track here.