The federal government will pump an additional $1.26 billion into health services.

The new Community Health and Hospitals Program will help fund projects in every state and territory, focusing on areas such as mental health and drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Improving access to cancer treatment services in rural and remote regions is also a priority.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt tells John Stanley the money will be going where it’s needed most.

“It is a very important fund because we want to be able to make decisions quickly and then improve these services and the access on the ground immediately.”

He says the government’s goal is “absolutely clear”.

“That is to provide more services to more people in rural and regional areas as well as across urban areas.”

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