Preparation works to expand the Emergency Department (ED) at the Royal Hobart Hospital are underway as the Tasmanian Government builds a better health system, now and for the future.
This $130 million expansion will reduce wait times and length of stay in the ED, improving health outcomes for Tasmanians.
The 2025-26 Budget will include the remaining $91 million funding for the project, following completion of Phase 1 in 2023, enabling the Government to deliver on its commitment as part of the broader RHH redevelopment.
"Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we're delivering a state-of-the-art ED with increased treatment points to improve patient flow and standards of care," Minister Petrusma said.
"The expansion includes 120 treatment points, including procedure rooms, as well as CT and X-Ray bays and two ultrasound rooms, with a new paediatric zone, and dedicated waiting areas for children and those experiencing mental health distress.
"This redevelopment will provide a more streamlined and improved patient and visitor experience, as well as improved access, safety, and infection control measures.
"The 2025-26 Budget delivers what we said we would do, and we are continuing our strong record of delivering new and upgraded health infrastructure."
Subject to the necessary development application approval and tender process, construction is expected to begin later this year.
The ED expansion concept design has been informed by key stakeholders and clinicians, as well as research into expected patient demand through to 2037 by specialist health planners.
Phase 2 of the expansion joins other major upgrades at the hospital, including the redevelopment of the pharmacy which is under construction, a new mental health short stay unit, and upgraded cardiology and angiography services.
