Sheed calls on Victorian Government to support Med-Con
Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed has again called on the Victorian Government to support Shepparton’s medical supplies manufacturer Med-Con, following the Federal Government’s five-year medical mask contract with the company.
“I commend the Federal Government for supporting our local medical supplies manufacturer and it is time the Victorian Government also purchased their personal protective equipment from this Victorian-run business,” Ms Sheed said.
In August last year, Ms Sheed called on the Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley, the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt, and every other state and territory minister, to support the local manufacturer.
Minister Foley said he had asked the state health department and health agencies (including those engaged with the Federal Government) to support purchasing personal protective equipment from Med-Con.
Ms Sheed called on Mr Foley to revisit his request to the health department and health agencies to secure a deal like that of the Federal Government.
“When the pandemic started in early 2020, Med-Con was the only Australian medical mask manufacturer,” Ms Sheed said.
“They stepped up to the demand when our community and medical staff needed supplies and when the cheaper supplies from overseas returned to our market, Med-Con was forced to reduce its output.
“We must remember that supporting such vital local suppliers is important to our sovereignty as a state and a nation.
“Victorians need to support one another during this pandemic and into the future. “A contract for medical masks with both the Federal and State Governments would bolster Med-Con and increase job opportunities in our district.”
ENDS
Media contact
Elaine Cooney 0447 820 466│elaine.cooney@parliament.vic.gov.au