This document outlines Lung Foundation Australia’s priorities for the Queensland state budget 2025-26. Lung Foundation Australia have identified five priorities requiring government action to improve the lung health of Queensland residents.
1. $2.5 million per year over 4 years to expand investment in Specialist Lung Cancer Nurses (SLCNs) in QLD
Lung cancer is a leading cause of the burden of disease in QLD. Specialist Lung Cancer Nurses enable timely and coordinated care, contributing to improved health outcomes.
2. $500,000 to address gaps in e-cigarette resources and information for First Nations and CALD young people in QLD
E-cigarette use by young people has increased significantly over the last few years. Resources are needed to fill existing gaps that exist for priority populations.
3. $450,000 per year over 2 years to support Queenslanders experiencing long COVID
Long COVID remains an ongoing risk for Queensland residents of all ages and backgrounds. Keeping people well informed about COVID and long COVID will lead to better health outcomes.
4. Improve access to pneumococcal vaccination for Queenslanders living with chronic lung diseases.
Pneumococcal vaccination is clinically recommended for certain lung conditions, but not funded. Free pneumococcal vaccination will allow people to protect their health without added cost-of-living pressure.
5. National Lung Cancer Screening Program implementation
Lung cancer is the #1 cause of cancer death in QLD and Australia. Early detection is vital, and the new program will save lives.
