Construction has officially begun to upgrade the Women's and Children's Hospital (WCH) as part of a $50 million sustainment program at the current site.
Premier Steven Marshall said the works will ensure South Australian children continue to receive world class care in modern facilities on the journey to a new WCH.
"The State Government has invested $550 million towards the first works of a brand new WCH, but we also want to make sure South Australian families have the best facilities while planning continues," Premier Marshall said.
"As the state's major hospital for some of our most vulnerable citizens, it's essential that the WCH can operate at the highest possible standard.
"Some of these works are already long overdue and I'm proud to be able to deliver this significant investment to better support the health and wellbeing of all South Australians."
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said he's pleased the works include a new Child and Adolescent Mental Health ward, which will meet the growing needs of the community.
"Consumers and clinicians have been telling me for years that the current space in the mental health facility simply doesn't meet the rising demand for mental health services for our young people," Minister Wade said.
"This new ward includes outdoor space, a high dependency area and a layout that will improve the way we care for young people with mental health conditions."
The contractor, Mossop Construction + Interiors, has begun work to upgrade the operating theatres and relocate some office space.
Work on the Paediatric Emergency Department (PED) is scheduled to commence in November while the Neonatal redevelopment and the new Mental Health facility will start early next year.
Lindsey Gough, CEO, Women's and Children's Health Network has thanked staff and consumers for their involvement in the project so far and for their patience while the works are carried out.
"We have worked closely with our staff, consumers and stakeholders to ensure these works meet the needs of our patients and provide value to the taxpayer," Ms Gough said.
"The areas being upgraded are those most in need of works, will provide the most benefit to our patients and are able to be completed in a timely manner."
For more information visit wch.sa.gov.au/upgrades
