The Liberals and Nationals' commitment to fix the health crisis in Victoria is clear, and building the first stage of the new Ballymanus Hospital forms a major part of that.
Critically, with the Ballarat Base Hospital experiencing major growth in demand, the local healthcare services must grow with it.
That's why a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will contribute $200 million to build the first stage of the new Ballymanus Regional Hospital, a new sister campus to Ballarat Base, and located at the heart of Ballarat's growth corridor in Alfredton.
The new build will have 100 beds, an urgent care centre, general surgical facilities as well as a day surgery centre, which will help serve an expected 30 per cent population growth over the 15 years.
Further, facilities and services to be provided will include:
- specialist radiology, imaging and pathology diagnostics
- day medical services including renal dialysis and chemotherapy
- geriatric support and assessment including a transition care program (TCP)
- a range of allied health and community health services including mental health support
- a community public dental clinic
Our plan isn't just about new and upgraded hospitals, but also delivering more staff and creating a better skilled and coordinated health workforce for the future.
Unlike the Andrews Labor Government, which promised the Ballarat Base Hospital redevelopment in 2018 and is unlikely to deliver anything until at least 2027, a Matt Guy Government will deliver its projects on time and on budget to the people of Ballarat.
Importantly, only the Liberals and Nationals can fund the billions of dollars of state funding committed for regional health care services by shelving the Box Hill to Cheltenham rail line, including:
· $500 million for Mildura Hospital
- · $400 million for West Gippsland Hospital
- · $300 million for Wodonga Hospital
- · $200 million for Ballymanus Hospital
- · $300 million for Wonthaggi Hospital
- · $100 million for Shepparton Cancer Centre and Health School
- · $75 million for Daylesford Hospital
- · $60 million for Mansfield Hospital
- · $30 million for St Arnaud Hospital
- · $30 million for Cobram District Health
Labor had eight years to improve healthcare in our communities, and yet it has cut $2 billion of funding from this year's budget.
The only real solution is a change in government.
Leader of the Liberal Party, Matt Guy, said when it came to delivering better healthcare in regional Victoria, the choice was clear.
"As Premier, my number one priority will be to not only build and upgrade hospitals right across the state, but also the workforce to staff them," Mr Guy said.
"Today's announcement is a major part of our plan to support Victorians, healthcare workers, and fix the health crisis."
Shadow Minister for Health, Georgie Crozier, said the Liberals and Nationals are offering real solutions to fix the health crisis in Victoria.
"Daniel Andrews has overseen our health system as Premier or Minister for almost 12 of the past 16 years. The person who broke the system isn't the one to fix it," Ms Crozier said.
"Accessing basic healthcare should never be a struggle, and this investment is about ensuring regional Victorians are prioritised, and the very best of healthcare is made available."
Member for Ripon, Louise Staley, said new facilities means better health outcomes for people in Ballarat and surrounds.
"Victoria cannot afford four more years of mismanagement and neglect. Only the Liberals and Nationals will fix the health crisis and build the health system of the future."
Liberal Candidate for Wendouree, Samantha McIntosh, said Ballymanus Hospital would be world-class under a Matt Guy led Government.
"Our plan will support our local healthcare workers, and importantly deliver modern facilities and equipment for when lives are on the line."
Liberal Candidate for Eureka, Paul Tatchell, said the commitment means better care closer to home.
"Like so many regional areas, Ballymanus Hospital serves a large area. This significant commitment by the Liberals and Nationals will deliver a world-class health service in our region."
