GIO’s $82,000 donation supports Canberra’s rehabilitation patients


Released 06/04/2017

GIO has generously donated more than $82,000 to the Canberra Hospital Foundation, providing for the purchase of new, state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment.  

Minister for Health, Meegan Fitzharris, said the donation would be used to purchase Advanced Functional Electrical Stimulation Devices, technology which sends low-level electrical stimulation to activate nerves and muscles.

“These specialist devices are designed to help people with certain neurological conditions walk more naturally, with increased speed, improved balance and mobility,” Minister Fitzharris said.

“Rehabilitation from trauma, surgery or chronic conditions can often be a long-term process and having access to the most up-to-date equipment will assist in improving health outcomes for our patients.

“The University of Canberra Public Hospital will focus specifically on sub-acute care, which will help ease the growing pressure on acute areas at Canberra Hospital and Calvary Hospital. Most importantly, it will provide a more appropriate environment for patients in the sub-acute phase of their recovery.

“These devices provide a new and innovative health service for the ACT community and they are a valuable addition to our public health system.”

The devices will initially be used at the Canberra Hospital and then transferred to the University of Canberra Public Hospital when it becomes operational in 2018.

Minister Fitzharris thanked GIO for their support to the Canberra Hospital Foundation and the broader community.

“This is a perfect example of a business giving back to the local community to support others,” Minister Fitzharris said.

“I would like to thank GIO for their fundraising efforts, which have improved the quality of life for many Canberrans on their road to recovery.

Further information on donations and fundraising activities is available online at the Canberra Hospital Foundation’s website www.canberrahospitalfoundation.org.au/.

- Statement ends -

Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Elliot Woods

(02) 6207 7272

0499 993 390

elliot.woods@act.gov.au


«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases