Construction of the University of Sydney medical program's new teaching facilities in Dubbo has begun, with work expected to be completed in October.
The first cohort of 24 Year 1 Sydney Medical students (Dubbo Stream) are expected to commence in early February next year. These students will be able to complete all of their four-year Doctor of Medicine degree in the brand new, world-class facility.
Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton this week visited the site and congratulated the university on the start of construction, after plans were approved last December.
The university will receive $9.27 million from the Australian Government for the medical school, including $7.65 million in capital funding to redevelop the existing School of Rural Health and build an extension. Patterson Building Group is managing the project.
It will include a state-of-the-art anatomy space including two- and three- dimensional visual technologies, virtual and augmented reality and 3D printing, learning studios, simulation space, service rooms and amenities.
"The new medical program in Dubbo will be part of the Murray-Darling Medical Schools Network, increasing the capacity for medical students to undertake and complete their studies in regional centres instead of Sydney or Melbourne," Minister Coulton said.
"More students from rural areas will be able to do medicine and all students will develop rural ties which will encourage them to stay in the country, after graduating.
"Together with the other elements of the Government's comprehensive plan for stronger rural health, this will improve access to doctors and health outcomes for rural people."
"The Dubbo program builds on our long-standing history in the region which has seen more than 800 students complete one-year extended placements in Dubbo, Orange and Broken Hill," said Professor Cheryl Jones, Head of School and Dean of the University of Sydney Medical School.
"We are very much looking forward to welcoming the first students to complete their entire degree in Dubbo."
