- Published:
- Friday 24 October 2025 at 10:41 am
The Allan Labor Government is ensuring older Victorians get the high-quality care and comfort they deserve – with construction on the new $45.36 million public aged care facility in Orbost reaching a major milestone.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt today visited the site and announced that the structure of the new two-storey Public Sector Residential Aged Care (PSRAC) is now complete, with work progressing on the building’s façade and internal fit-out.
The state-of-the-art facility will deliver 38 modern single bedrooms with private ensuite bathrooms, replacing Orbost Regional Health’s ageing Lochiel House and Waratah Lodge facilities.
Designed to promote independence and a sense of home, the new facility will be arranged around smaller ‘households’ – each with its own kitchen, dining, lounge and sitting areas to encourage connection and community.
Residents will also have access to shared spaces including a community room, reflection room, café and hair salon offering more opportunities for social interaction and engagement with loved ones.
With dementia-friendly design at its heart, the facility will provide a safe and supportive environment that promotes dignity, comfort and independence – featuring intuitive layouts, natural light, open area views and connections to green outdoor spaces to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority and builder SJ Higgins, the project is expected to be completed in late 2026.
In a boost to the local economy, the project is also expected to create and sustain more than 200 construction industry jobs.
When complete in late 2026, the new Orbost facility will ensure older Victorians in the region can continue to receive high-quality care close to family, friends and their community.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt
“This new facility will give older Victorians in Orbost the comfort, dignity and quality care they deserve – in a home that’s modern, safe and designed to meet their needs.”
“Ageing in place is critically important for older Victorians, especially those in regional areas like Orbost and we’re delivering the care and facilities to support them to do this.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne
“We’re building and upgrading aged care infrastructure right across Victoria – giving older Victorians modern, tailored facilities that meet their needs and support their independence.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh