Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—A major milestone for regional healthcare was marked in Charlestown this month with the official launch of Novatrials, Australia's first purpose built regional Phase I clinical trials facility. I had the pleasure of attending the opening on International Clinical Trials Day and helping celebrate this exciting advancement for healthcare and medical research in our region. As the first facility of its kind outside a metropolitan centre, Novatrials will significantly improve access to cutting edge treatments for people living in regional, rural and remote communities. Until now, many patients across regional New South Wales have been required to travel long distances to participate in clinical trials and access emerging treatments. The new world class facility includes 31 inpatient beds, an onsite laboratory, pharmacy, infusion lounge, consulting rooms and an infectious disease room, allowing ethically approved Phase I to III clinical trials to be conducted locally. Novatrials will also play an important role in supporting Australia's medical research capabilities and helping produce more treatments locally rather than relying on overseas manufacturing. I congratulate everyone involved in bringing this important project to life and thank them for their commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for our community.

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!