More Ararat families will get easier access to the vital community health and family services they need – all under one roof – thanks to an Andrews Labor Government funding boost for East Grampians Health Service.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Health Jill Hennessy today announced East Grampians Health Service will receive $4.1 million through the first round of the Labor Government’s new Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
The $200 million fund – the largest of its kind in Victorian history – will rebuild rural and regional hospitals to ensure all Victorians can access the high quality care and facilities they need, no matter where they live.
For Ararat, this investment will create a one-stop-shop that will support community health professionals to work collaboratively together, while also making health and wellbeing services easier to access.
The project features an extension to the current community health centre building to house new consulting rooms for maternal and child health nurses, more community meeting rooms, an expanded waiting area, a new reception and a new front entry.
Meanwhile, the existing facility will be refurbished and the toy library will also be expanded, along with the construction of a new secure children’s courtyard. Construction is expected to be completed by late 2018.
The Victorian Budget 2016/17 provided an extra $2.45 billion for health so hospitals can admit more patients, reduce waiting times, upgrade buildings and infrastructure, and keep Victorians healthy.
In 2016/17, East Grampians Health Service will receive $19.29 million in funding from the Labor Government. This is $648,000 – or 3.5 per cent – more than provided the previous financial year.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re putting patients first in Ararat by revamping the rural and regional health services so more local patients can be treated sooner, closer to home.”
“This expansion will bring together a range of health and family services conveniently under one roof, ensuring services are better connected, more efficient, and easier to access.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“Doctors and nurses at Ararat do a remarkable job. We’re supporting them to do their job saving lives and keeping locals healthy by building a modern community health centre that has room to grow and expand services.”
“Creating a one-stop-shop for community health and family services will make life easier for local families and health professionals alike.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020