The Tasmanian Government is progressing the delivery of the new $40 million North West Mental Health Precinct, with a contract now awarded to construct the purpose-built facility at the North West Regional Hospital.
This project is a major priority for the Tasmanian Government, replacing the Spencer Clinic with a contemporary, recovery-focused mental health service for the North West community.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the new precinct would provide an important long-term boost to local mental health services, particularly following the recent fire at the Spencer Clinic.
"While temporary arrangements are in place and mental health care continues to be available for North West Tasmanians, we understand the concern this incident has caused patients, families, staff and the broader community," Minister Archer said.
"We are doing everything possible to provide safe, high-quality mental health support now, while bringing forward this vital project so the community can access the modern facility it deserves as soon as possible.
"We are building an even better health system with this new precinct to provide a safe, welcoming and therapeutic environment for people experiencing mental health crisis.
"The facility will feature a 22-bed mental health inpatient unit, replacing the Spencer Clinic.
"It will be designed around contemporary models of care, with dedicated clinical spaces, a welcoming main entrance, accessible parking and healing gardens for patients, families, visitors and staff.
"The new precinct will strengthen local services and help ensure more North West Tasmanians can receive the right mental health care, closer to home."
The contract has been awarded to Vos Construction following a competitive tender process.
Construction will commence as soon as possible, subject to final site and project arrangements, with the Department of Health working to accelerate delivery.
Mental health care remains available at the North West Regional Hospital Emergency Department. In an emergency, call Triple Zero. For non-emergency support, people can contact Access Mental Health on 1800 332 388 or speak with their GP or treating health professional.
The $40 million precinct is funded through the Tasmanian Government's commitment to strengthen mental health infrastructure and services across the State.
