An important milestone has been reached in the delivery of critical health infrastructure upgrades, including additional aged care beds, at the West Coast District Hospital in Queenstown.
A development application to build Stage 2 of the West Coast District Hospital Upgrade has now been submitted to the West Coast Council.
The Australian Government has committed $5,741,000 through the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing's Aged Care Capital Assistance Program to deliver the upgrades.
Stage 2 works include the delivery of four additional aged care bedrooms with ensuites, a new day area and lounge and associated supporting spaces.
The additional aged care rooms will improve access to quality aged care at Lyell House, which currently has 17 aged care beds, allowing more people to access high quality aged care in their local community.
The new facilities will be delivered by creating a new extension to the first floor of the hospital. The extension will sit above an existing laundry and vehicle access area and connect into the rear of the hospital building.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Tasmanian Government understands the crucial role our District Hospitals play in delivering health services to rural and regional communities across the State.
"The Tasmanian Liberal Government is delivering state-of-the-art infrastructure projects across the State, and this development application marks an important step forward in providing the facilities that the West Coast community deserves," Minister Archer said.
"The new aged care beds will mean more West Coast residents can receive high quality care closer to home, surrounded by family and friends.
"We are committed to strengthening rural and regional health services, and this upgrade will help ensure the West Coast District hospital continues to meet community needs for decades to come."
Quotes attributable to the Federal Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae:"The Albanese Labor Government is investing in aged care at record levels to rebuild our aged care system. We're making sure every older Australian can get the world-class care they deserve, wherever they live.
"Our investment here will support older Australians get the care they need, closer to home and the ones they love while still accessing the safe, high-quality and dignified care locals deserve.
"We're helping more older people to stay connected to their families and communities as they age, making sure there's even more dedicated places for older people on the West Coast to get the quality care they need when it's most needed".
Quotes attributable to the Member for Braddon, Anne Urquhart:
"This upgrade will deliver more aged care beds and improved facilities so West Coast residents can access high-quality care close to home, surrounded by family and friends.
"When all levels of government work together, we achieve great outcomes for our communities."
Subject to relevant approvals, construction of the Stage 2 redevelopment is expected to start in mid-2026 and be completed in early 2028.
