No funds announced for new hospital

Despite almost $430 million being announced in the State Budget for new hospitals, upgrades and equipment there was no commitment towards building a new West Gippsland Hospital.

West Gippsland Healthcare Group chief executive officer Dan Weeks said it was disappointing there was nothing in the budget about a new hospital.

An announcement “would have sent a strong public message of support,” he said, although conceding it would have been largely symbolic.

“A masterplan and feasibility study funded in last year’s state budget should be completed this month and the Health Minister had committed to having a business case done by the end of this year”.

The focus and intention is to have everything ready for a funding announcement in next year’s budget, Mr Weeks said.

The Liberal National Party coalition late last year announced it would fund a new WGH, to be built on land the healthcare group owns between Warragul and Drouin, if elected to government in the State election due next year.

Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood said the failure of the government to commit to the project showed how out of touch it was with the needs of the community and families in a rapidly growing region.

Committee for Gippsland chief executive officer Mary Aldred also expressed disappointment there was not an announcement about a new hospital.

However, she said its development would be a natural extension of the business case the government was currently look into.

Baw Baw Shire Council also reaffirmed its support for a new hospital for the area.

Executive manager Community Information and Advocacy Jane Oakley said it was a key priority.

Council acknowledges the government is progressing the feasibility and master plan studies and will continue to advocate for a new hospital.

The budget also boosts funding to help hospitals support growing demand, reduce waiting lists for elective surgery and respond to family violence.

Mr Weeks said he was hopeful of additional funding to meet growth in demand for WGHG’s growing demand and waiting lists.

We have done very well in recent years, including as recently as January, in accessing additional funding, he said.