$461 million for Base Hospital rebuild from Coalition

Hospital revamp: Amy Johnson and Andrew Kilmartin at the Ballarat Hospital following the announcement of a massive reconstruction pledge. Photo: ALISTAIR FINLAY

BALLARAT Base Hospital is inline for a massive capital works program should the Coalition win government on Saturday.

As part of the $461 million pledge the Liberal and National parties have said they will essentially rebuild this hospital.

Work includes more surgical theatres, a bigger emergency department, additional mental health facilities and more space for a women and children’s hub.

“This funding is a great result for residents in Ballarat,” said Liberal candidate for Buninyong Andrew Kilmartin.

“Labor has been in government for 15 of the last 19 years and have failed to keep up with population growth in Ballarat and provide proper services.”

With a new master plan for the hospital due soon, sources were unable to commit to a timeline for the bulk of the work, however the announcement did include some aspects that would begin immediately.

They include $1.6 million for an expansion for the Mother and Baby Mental Health unit and $1.8 million for extra capacity within the Pain Clinic.

The post-natal mental health service would expand to seven days a week and offer enhanced specialist psychological treatment and emotional support during pregnancy and early parenthood.

Liberal candidate for Wendouree, Amy Johnson, welcomed the announcement.

“As a young mum I know how important it is to have easy access to health care during what can be a stressful time,” she said.

The immediate cash injection for the Ballarat Hospital’s pain service would enable the treatment of about 1800 patients dealing with conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis and back pain.

A spokesperson for the Liberal Party said a Freedom of Information request revealed there were 120 patients on the current Pain Clinic waiting list, with one waiting 235 days for specialist treatment.

“Ballarat residents deserve worldclass facilities and only under a Liberal National Government will they get a new hospital as well as an expanded mother and baby unit and pain clinic,” said Shadow Health Minster Mary Wooldridge.

“The Liberal Nationals investment will mean better healthcare, closer to home with thousands more jobs for the region.”