Lymphoedema Compression Garment Subsidy

The Hon. J.E. HANSON (14:46): Supplementary to the minister: will the minister look into whether or not the garments can be made in South Australia or in Australia generally? If that work has already been done, can he please provide that to the council?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:46): I am certainly happy to take that question on notice and bring back an answer for the honourable member. On the issue of the garments, it was interesting to talk to some consumers at the launch. Having the garments provided frees up the resources of people with lymphoedema to acquire other services.

So the provision of the garments is not only a very useful support for them in their condition, but considering that many of them have needs that go beyond garments the scheme hopefully will provide them with a few more resources to address other needs that they have with their condition. I certainly acknowledge the honourable member's point: we should always be looking at opportunities as we expand health services to expand opportunities for South Australian industry.