UnitingCare Queensland hospitals welcome boost to Surgery Connect program

UnitingCare Queensland (UnitingCare) welcomes the Queensland Government’s $1.752 billion commitment over four years to reduce the state’s elective surgery waitlist, including over $1.2 billion in funding to deliver 30,000 additional procedures in 2025–26 through the Surgery Connect program.  

Queensland’s largest non-government employer – UnitingCare operates The Wesley Hospital and St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital in Brisbane, Buderim Private Hospital on the Sunshine Coast and St Stephen’s Hospital in Hervey Bay.  

UnitingCare Group Executive for Hospitals, David Harper, said the investment represents a vital step toward improving access to essential surgeries.  

“As a proud partner in the Surgery Connect initiative, we’re committed to ensuring more Queenslanders receive timely and high-quality healthcare when they need it most.”  

“We look forward to continuing to work with Queensland Health to help ease pressure on the public health system by delivering elective surgeries and positive health outcomes for patients across the communities we serve – supporting them to live life in all its fullness, sooner,” he said.  

About UnitingCare Queensland  

UnitingCare Queensland provides aged care, disability supports, healthcare and crisis response in Queensland through BlueCare, Lifeline, The Wesley Hospital, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, Buderim Private Hospital and St Stephen’s Hospital. We provide aged care and community services in the Northern Territory through Australian Regional and Remote Community Services (ARRCS).  

MEDIA CONTACT: Amy Partington – 0437 344 216