Kate recognises how upsetting the changes to Batemans Bay Hospital are for many in the community. Health care is deeply personal, and people rightly expect services to be available close to home. This decision—made approximately seven years ago by the NSW Government and signed off when Andrew Constance was Treasurer—continues to cause concern locally.

However, no federal MP or candidate can reverse that decision. It is disingenuous to suggest otherwise.

Kate is focused on ensuring people continue to receive the care they need today. She supports the new urgent care clinic and the continuation of emergency services in Batemans Bay. For more complex care, the expanded Moruya Hospital—due to open in 2026—will provide upgraded facilities and support. Recognising the need for timely access, Kate is also calling for faster delivery of key road upgrades to reduce emergency transfer times between Batemans Bay and Moruya.

It’s important to be clear about roles and responsibilities. This is a state government decision, yet it is being used to dominate a federal campaign conversation. That misleads voters and distracts from the issues a federal MP can meaningfully address: fixing inequities in regional health funding, tackling the housing crisis, investing in disaster preparedness, and supporting the energy transition. Kate’s campaign will always stand with the community—but it won’t offer false hope or play politics with people’s fears. It is committed to doing politics differently: listening with empathy, communicating honestly, and focusing on the future—not rehashing state decisions from seven years ago for political gain.