The Victorian Government is ensuring people living in Ballarat and the Western region have access to the world-class healthcare they deserve close to home.

Nearly 80 rural and regional hospitals, community health services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations will share in $120 million from the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF) – creating hundreds of jobs.

The RHIF program will deliver 105 projects across 40 rural and regional council areas including operating theatre refurbishments, new waiting rooms and hospital beds, accessible paths and ramps, additional consulting rooms, expansions projects and equipment upgrades.

Ballarat Health Services is receiving $5.9 million to relocate the Base Hospital’s Diagnostics Department to the first floor of the Gardiner Pittard building on Drummond Street.

As the largest employer in Ballarat, and the main public referral health service to the Grampians region of Victoria, with a growing catchment population, demand on diagnostic services continues to grow. This significant funding will enable the relocation and expansion of the Diagnostics Department at BHS.

The new Diagnostics Department will be a purpose-built facility with adequate capacity for future growth that meets the growing needs for those in our community who need these services. It will also provide an environment for our staff which is at the top of their professional skill range.

With this latest round of RHIF projects the Government has now invested $490 million in more than 470 regional healthcare projects across the state – the largest program of its type in Victoria.

More information at projects funded by the RHIF at: vhba.vic.gov.au/health/regional-facilities/regional-health-infrastructure-fund.

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“With this crucial investment in diagnostic services, we are ensuring better health outcomes for the Ballarat community. This project is delivering improved services and upgraded facilities while creating local jobs.”

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“This $6 million investment is about giving our local community the best possible health services no matter where they live.”

Quote attributable to CEO of Ballarat Health Services Dale Fraser

“Ballarat Health Services is the major referral centre for the Grampians region for diagnostic services. Every year, demand grows significantly on the services, resulting in increased wait times.  We are delighted that the Government has invested funds to address this issue. Contemporary facilities allow us to deliver world class health care to our community”