By Jessica Micallef
A re-elected Andrews Labor government will upgrade the Sunbury Day hospital, as part of a $675 million election pledge to build and upgrade 10 community hospitals in Victorian suburbs and regional towns.
The upgrade will allow the Sunbury hospital to provide greater capacity for more urgent care services to be delivered after hours.
The new hospital will be equipped with second and third tier services, including dental and day surgery, and will expand on pathology, medical imaging and pharmacy services.
The community hospital plan will include some land acquisition for further expansion.
Member for Sunbury Josh Bull said the community hospital announcement was a huge win for residents.
“The Liberals have let down our local community – only Labor will invest in the vital services like a new community hospital, which will make a real difference to the lives of Sunbury locals,” Mr Bull said.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the new hospitals would provide locals with around-the-clock care without having to travel far from home.
“Nothing is more important than having the peace of mind that when a loved one gets sick, care is just around the corner,” Mr Andrews said.
In another boost for local healthcare, Gisborne Ambulance Station is set to be upgraded as part of a $25 million package to build and upgrade stations across the state.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the new station upgrade would help benefit paramedics in the Macedon area.
“Paramedics across the Macedon Ranges are there when we need them – and with an upgraded and modern station in Gisborne, we’re backing our paramedics so they can do what they do best – that’s saving lives,” Ms Thomas said.
Design and planning work for the Sunbury community hospital will begin next year, with works to be completed in 2023, if Labor is re-elected.
