Strong communities, reliable health care, and an economy ready to seize new opportunities mean a prosperous Alberta for generations to come. Last week, nearly $8 billion in federal defence investment was announced, reinforcing Alberta’s role in Canada’s security while creating major opportunities for workers and businesses. Our government is also taking action to guide responsible neighbourhood growth and strengthen health care through a new agreement with Alberta physicians and additional investment in primary health care.
Canadian military bases and defence industries in Alberta are receiving a major boost. Almost $8 billion in federal funding will support defence projects across the province, including $550 million to make Alberta the western home base for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CC-330 Husky fleet. The investment is expected to create up to 38,000 jobs and strengthen Alberta’s aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and technology industries. Alberta’s government will continue investing in schools, health care, highways, and workforce training to make sure communities are ready for this growth.
Our government is also stepping in to make sure new housing growth respects the neighbourhoods Albertans already call home. Edmonton will have three months to restore previous rules for housing density, building height, and on-site parking following zoning changes that allowed more high-density development in established neighbourhoods. Calgary will continue with its current approach after city council repealed blanket rezoning earlier this year. Both cities will review land-use rules and consult residents so new housing meets local infrastructure and neighbourhood needs. As Alberta continues to lead the country in new home construction, our government wants to ensure this growth is managed responsibly.
Our government has also reached an important agreement with Alberta’s physicians. Doctors represented by the Alberta Medical Association have voted to ratify a new master agreement with the province, providing a stable framework for physician compensation and the delivery of medical services. The new deal offers competitive pay while helping maintain a sustainable, publicly funded health care system. It also supports ongoing efforts to improve access to care for Albertans. With the agreement now ratified, our government can continue working with Alberta doctors to strengthen physician services and improve patient care.
In addition, Alberta’s government is investing $10 million to test and expand new ideas to improve access to primary care. Through the Primary Care Innovation Fund, organizations can develop new approaches that connect patients with regular care sooner, improve transitions from hospital to home, and reduce avoidable emergency room visits. Previous projects have already delivered more than 630 virtual appointments in 28 communities and helped screen 130 infants for hip dysplasia using portable ultrasound technology. Applications for the next round of funding will close Nov. 2.
Our government is investing $2 million in 14 community programs that help prevent youth suicide and connect young people with support close to home. These projects focus on early intervention, stronger relationships, life skills, and access to local mental health resources. Since 2024, Youth Suicide Prevention Grant funding has supported more than 3,200 young Albertans. By investing in community organizations that already know the young people they serve, our government is helping more youth get support before they reach a crisis. I am pleased to share that the Trellis Society for Community Impact in Strathmore was one of the grant recipients and received $175,000 to continue its work.
Last week, we also marked an important milestone for Chestermere with the groundbreaking for the new K–9 school in Dawson. As our community continues to grow, this new school will help provide students with the space and learning environment they need to succeed.
As Alberta grows, our government is strengthening the foundations that enable our province to continue leading the way nationally. From creating new opportunities through defence investment to supporting responsible growth for communities and more dependable health care, we are making sure Alberta is ready for continued growth while enhancing the quality of life Albertans deserve.