Ipswich MP Jennifer Howard has criticised the State Government and industry bodies on several fronts, covering health infrastructure, education, and animal welfare in her latest “State of Play” update.
Speaking to West Bremer Radio, Howard said she was concerned by reports that the new Ripley Satellite Health Centre’s planned three-storey car park could be scrapped. She noted the parking was “integral” to the facility, given the lack of street parking in the busy precinct. Howard said she and fellow MPs Lance McCallum and Charis Mullen had fought for and secured funding for the centre under Labor’s record health spend.
On the recent Queensland teachers’ strike, Howard stressed it was about more than pay, highlighting heavy workloads and unsafe conditions in classrooms. She called on the Education Minister to meet with teacher representatives more often to better understand the issues.
Howard also reminded residents that free flu vaccinations remain available, warning of a particularly severe season, and praised the Opposition’s first Estimates hearings for exposing important government shortcomings.
Turning to animal welfare, Howard condemned the $85 million Queensland Greyhound facility at Purga after 12 dog deaths since its June opening. She has written to the minister demanding an end to “false and misleading” safety claims in the facility’s advertising and called for an independent regulator if the industry continues.
Howard also celebrated the opening of the Wilshire Apartments in Basin Pocket — purpose-built social housing developed with Churches of Christ — which will allow older residents to downsize, freeing up larger homes for families.
“It’s about investing in what Ipswich actually needs,” she said. “We need to focus on projects that deliver real benefits to our community.”
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