Work is forging ahead on the Allan Labor Government's landmark $1.1 billion redevelopment of Frankston Hospital - with the main entrance and reception area of the redevelopment revealed today.
Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne was given a sneak peek of the nearly completed hospital, which will transform health care for locals on the Peninsula - the expanded capacity to support an additional 35,000 patients every year.
Designed to reflect the landscape of the Mornington Peninsula, the reception area features three massive wooden beams resembling native trees, as well as a large canopy designed to imitate sea foam found along the nearby coastline.
Once complete, the state-of-the-art clinical services tower will add 130 beds to the hospital, a new operating theatre suite with 15 new theatres, a rooftop helipad, expanded women's and children's services, a new medical imaging department, new spaces for mental health and oncology services and more.
The tower structure and exterior façade are already complete and as the hospital prepares to open, the internal fit-out and testing of spaces and equipment is now underway.
The existing emergency department will also benefit from an expansion that includes a new and improved reception area and a larger triage space.
A multi-storey carpark with approximately 675 additional car spaces is also being delivered as a part of the project.
While construction is underway, the redevelopment is supporting up to 1,700 jobs and once operational will create even more healthcare jobs on site.
The redevelopment is being delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority, in partnership with Peninsula Health and the Exemplar Health consortium.
As stated by Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne
"The Frankston Hospital redevelopment is set to transform healthcare in Melbourne's south east and the Mornington Peninsula - meaning more care, closer to home for local families."
As stated by Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke
"The bigger and better Frankston Hospital is starting to come to life - in only a few short months, families and locals from across our area will be accessing care in this incredible facility."
As stated by Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny
"The expansion of Frankston Hospital will fundamentally change how locals in our community access healthcare - I can't wait to see the project complete."
As stated by Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio
"It is fantastic to see our stunning natural coastline reflected in the design of the new hospital - it is such a welcoming, inviting and warm space for patients and staff."
As stated by Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards
"The redevelopment of Frankston Hospital has been years in the making - not only will it mean more healthcare for locals, but it will also provide our hardworking medical staff with the world-class facilities they need and deserve."