- Published:
- Thursday 27 November 2025 at 5:35 pm
The Allan Labor Government is supporting improved access to lifesaving dialysis treatment for locals in Cobram – reducing the need to travel long distances and keeping them close to loved ones during treatment.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today visited NCN Health’s Cobram campus to announce the $255,000 investment that will support the planning of a new day stay unit to provide dialysis services and same day cancer care.
To help more dialysis patients access the care they need, NCN Health will also be provided with a one-off grant of $150,000 to deploy two patient transport vehicles. This will mean more support and an improved experience for local patients traveling to GV Health in Shepparton, while the new facility is planned for.
Hemodialysis is a lifesaving treatment that filters waste and excess fluids from the blood and is essential for people living with chronic kidney failure to allow them to maintain their quality of life.
Typically, patients have had to travel long distances to major regional hospitals or into Melbourne for treatment, but this new unit will mean they will soon have the care they need closer to home.
The Labor Government has a strong track record of supporting health infrastructure projects in Cobram, with recent upgrades including new theatre equipment and kitchen. The Urgent Care Centre has also been refurbished so that more members of the community can access care when they need it.
Planning for the new multi-purpose unit is being funded through the Labor Government’s Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF).
Now worth a total of $790 million, RHIF helps health services across the state deliver a range of projects.
Projects range from theatre refurbishments, new waiting rooms and hospital beds, accessible paths and ramps, additional consulting rooms, expansion projects and equipment upgrades.
Since establishing the RHIF in 2016, the Labor Government has funded more than 670 projects for regional health services – ensuring Victorians living in the regions can access the very best care, in modern, safe, facilities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
“This will be a gamechanger for Cobram locals who are currently travelling to other regional towns to receive dialysis and cancer treatment services – they will soon be able to stay close to home and their loved ones.”
“RHIF is investing in regional health services right across the state – ensuring they have the very best equipment and facilities they need to provide high-quality care.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“We know just how important these services are for the local community – with this funding, NCN Health can begin planning for these vital upgrades.”