Streamlined assessment puts Camp Courage within reach

The assessment of a proposed rural retreat for military and emergency service workers suffering from PTSD and other mental health issues will be streamlined by the Palaszczuk Government.

The 4 Aussie Heroes Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation, plans to establish Camp Courage at Limestone Ridges, between Ipswich and Boonah, to provide support and rehabilitation services through a 12-day live-in program for participants.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the assessment process for Camp Courage would now proceed through a streamlined Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID).

“Ministerial Infrastructure Designations are an efficient, coordinated process used to assist the development of community infrastructure like schools and hospitals, and could enable Camp Courage to establish their retreat within months,” Mr Dick said.

“No further development approvals will be required, however, the MID will ensure adequate environmental assessment and community consultation still occurs.

“Our defence personnel and first responders undertake vital work in our community, but it’s often under very difficult and traumatic circumstances.

“Camp Courage has been developed to improve the health and wellbeing of the brave men and women who serve our country, and the MID assessment is another step forward towards making this project a reality.”

4 Aussie Heroes Foundation Chairman and Managing Director Gerry Garard, a Vietnam veteran, said the MID would help Camp Courage get up and running much faster.

“This is a major step forward and we are very grateful for the Palaszczuk Government’s assistance to help us turn Camp Courage into a reality,” Mr Garard said.

“We’re battling for every donation, every dollar we can muster to make this project happen, so a streamlined MID process will make a big difference in our ability to get the doors open so we can start supporting people.”

The Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning will now work with 4 Aussie Heroes Foundation to assist them in formally lodging the MID request.

Public consultation will be undertaken for a minimum of 20 business days to enable members of the public to have their say on the project.

For more information, visit the infrastructure designations webpage on Queensland’s Planning System website.

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561