The Andrews Labor Government’s expansion of Sunshine Hospital’s emergency department is complete, giving families in Melbourne’s western suburbs faster access to world-class healthcare.
Acting Premier James Merlino and Minister for Health Martin Foley officially opened the new $34.9 million emergency department at Sunshine Hospital today and met some of the first patients.
The Sunshine Hospital emergency department is one of Victoria’s busiest, treating around 65,000 patients a year. The expansion has so far added 55 treatment spaces, doubling the hospital’s current capacity.
A trip to the emergency department can be scary for kids, but now they will be treated in a dedicated and calming space, purpose built for families – with a capacity to treat around 19,700 children every year.
The new emergency department includes nine additional dedicated treatment spaces for children, a medical imaging suite, a new paediatric triage and reception, fast-track bays and support areas.
The refurbishment of Sunshine Hospital’s existing emergency department is now underway and is expected to be completed by the middle of the year. This will provide 10 additional beds, a new resuscitation area and Behaviour Assessment Unit.
Once the refurbishment is complete, Sunshine Hospital’s emergency department will be able to treat an extra 59,000 patients each year.
The Labor Government opened the flagship $200 million Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital in St Albans in 2019 and is getting on with building the $1.5 billion new Footscray Hospital and planning for a new hospital in Melton, ensuring Victorians living in Melbourne’s west get the world-class care they need, when they need it.
Quote attributable to Acting Premier James Merlino
“Sunshine Hospital cares for one of our fastest growing communities and this expanded emergency department will ensure families in Melbourne’s west get seen faster and receive the care they need to get back on their feet.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Martin Foley
“We’re making a trip to the emergency department a little less stressful for families, with a dedicated, calming space for kids to receive world-class care, when they need it most.”
Quote attributable to Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman
“This major redevelopment is about making sure Sunshine Hospital’s healthcare workers have the modern facilities they need to provide the very best care for families in Melbourne’s western suburbs.”
Reviewed 16 March 2021