Cobram Courier, Cobram VIC (General News) The Victorian Government will spend a record $18.12 billion so more northern Victoria patients can get the highest quality care and treatment they need and sooner. State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced the record funding for northern Victorias country hospitals last week. Ms Symes said Labor governments were known for their commitment to public health investment. The budget breakdown shows how this record funding for our health system is split among hospitals, ambulance services, mental health and drug services, aged care, community health and public health services, she said. Victorian hospitals will receive $10.6 billion, which is $665.84 million or 6.7 per cent more than was provided in the previous financial year. Labor are providing $1.76 billion more than cash-starved hospitals received under the former Liberal National Government in their last budget in 2014-15. The governments increased funding will support hospitals to meet demand so patients can access the care they need and deserve, more quickly and closer to home. It will enable hospitals to admit 1.9 million patients, treat 1.8 million patients in emergency and carry out more than 200 000 elective surgeries to reduce waiting lists even further, Ms Symes said. We know our dedicated doctors, nurses and staff do a remarkable job and this record funding boost gives them the support they need to keep saving lives and keep people healthy. This record boost means better hospitals and efficient care that is first class and accessible, no matter where you live in northern Victoria. We are opening more beds, more theatres and reducing waits for surgery and emergency care which is all about putting northern Victoria patients first. Funding details Cobram District Health: Receives $7.739 million, up by $357 000, or 4.8 per cent, on the previous year. Numurkah District Health Service: Receives $9.93 million, up by $354 000, or 3.7 per cent, on the previous year. Yarrawonga & District Health Service: Receives $10.62 million, up by $423 000, or 4.1 per cent, on the previous year. Nathalia District Hospital: Receives $2.647 million, up by $66 000, or 2.6 per cent, on the previous year.