Country Women’s Association to advocate government on health outcomes

The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW is preparing for its annual state conference, which this year is in Wagga Wagga.

A record number of motions will be considered by delegates this year, including several urgency motions around health care in country NSW.

“The high number of motions delegates will be asked to vote on this year reflects the commitment from our members to their communities and the importance of highlighting issues impacting the lives of those in remote, rural and regional NSW communities,” CWA of NSW president Joy Beames said.

“Advocacy has always been at the heart of our association and that has certainly come to the fore this year.”

More than 600 members from around the state are expected to come together.

The motions that will be put to delegates over the three days cover education, health, the environment, agriculture, transport and telecommunications. There are two urgency motions for consideration, both aiming to improve health care outcomes for remote, rural and regional NSW communities.

These motions request the NSW Government urgently review ambulance resourcing in regional, rural, and remote communities to ensure a timely medical response.

Additionally, that improved emergency response protocols be established to ensure that when an ambulance is unavailable, appropriate alternative medical support is deployed.

At this year’s conference, a new president for the association will be elected, following the end of the three-year term by current president Joy Beames.