The Allan Labor Government is delivering better aged care for regional Victorians - with construction now underway on the new $69.7 million public aged care facility at Maffra District Hospital.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt today turned the first sod on the new 30-bed residential aged care facility, which will be operated by Central Gippsland Health and replace the outdated JHF McDonald Wing and Residential Aged Care Wing within the hospital.
Designed to support the dignity, privacy and independence of residents, the new facility will feature private bedrooms with ensuites and be divided into smaller household-style communities - each with its own kitchen, dining and lounge areas to give residents the choice to socialise or enjoy quiet time.
Shared spaces will include a café, hairdressing salon, activity and reflection rooms and landscaped outdoor areas for residents and their families to enjoy.
With an emphasis on natural light and views of the surrounding landscape, the new facility will provide a calm, home-like environment that promotes wellbeing.
As part of the redevelopment, a new commercial kitchen, staff amenities and energy centre will also be delivered to support the entire Maffra District Hospital campus - ensuring it can continue to provide the best possible care, now and into the future.
The project will create a modern, safe and efficient workplace for staff, supporting high-quality care and enabling contemporary models of practice.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Central Gippsland Health, Hames Sharley + Bamford Architects and builder SJ Higgins, the facility is expected to be completed in 2028.
This major investment forms part of the Allan Labor Government's Better Aged Care Services for Regional Victorians Strategy, which is modernising public aged care across the state to ensure residents can age in place and remain connected to their communities.
Once complete, the current JHF McDonald Wing and Residential Aged Care Wing will be refurbished to create a new Allied Health and Community Wellness Centre - providing even more services for the Maffra community.
As stated by Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt
"Older Victorians deserve to age with dignity and respect - and this modern new facility in Maffra will give locals access to high-quality care, close to home and their loved ones."
"This investment will deliver a contemporary, safe and welcoming home for residents and a modern workplace for the dedicated staff who care for them."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
"This is a fantastic project for Maffra and the wider region - it means locals can stay in their community and receive the care and support they deserve in a modern, comfortable setting."
