Surgery Waits Cut Through Surgery Connect

Queenslanders waiting for elective surgery are set to receive treatment sooner, with the State Government expanding its Surgery Connect program to help reduce wait times and restore people's mobility, independence and quality of life.

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Backed by a $247 million investment in the 2026–27 State Budget, the program has already delivered more than 35,000 additional procedures across the state. The latest funding will also bring 11 new service providers on board, including in Mackay and Townsville, improving access to surgery for regional Queenslanders.

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Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the addition of new service providers and bolstered funding was good news for anyone waiting on life changing surgery with thousands of additional procedures supported by the program.

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“Procedures like cataract surgery, joint replacements and ear nose and throat surgeries significantly improve a patient’s quality of life,” Mr Last said.

“Research has proven that long delays waiting for these procedures means symptoms worsen, pain increases and there is an impact on the patient’s mental health.”

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“This is why we are partnering with providers to ensure these patients can access these surgeries sooner.”

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Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government's $1.8 billion investment in elective surgery was already delivering results, with the statewide elective surgery waiting list falling to 58,496 patients. He said the reduction followed years of rising demand, with the list reaching a high of 66,632 after increasing year on year over the previous decade.  

“Since February 2025 more than 35,000 procedures have been delivered and in turn helped stabilise the Queensland elective surgery waitlist.”

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“Besides the obvious benefits for patients, Surgery Connect reduces the pressure on our health staff who, through no fault of their own, have been forced to delay surgeries.”

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