Alongside the acting-Prime Minister, Riverina MP Michael McCormack and federal Infrastructure Minister Bridget McKenzie, I was able to welcome the $17 million funding for Wagga’s long-awaited Rural Medical School.

In fact, the boost will make the city’s long-term dream, and mine, a reality.

I worked to negotiate the original site for the school, liaising between the health sector and the university, so I’m excited to see the next phase going ahead.

For the first time, students can start and finish their medical training here in Wagga, which will be a significant step forward for rural and regional areas, hopefully addressing the skilled practitioner shortages.

 The students that come from Wagga and surrounding areas are the residents more likely to stay here when they finish their training.