Construction starts on children’s emergency department

CONSTRUCTION has begun on the $20 million children’s emergency department at University Hospital Geelong.

Once complete in September 2024, the new facility will feature 28 additional treatment spaces, including two fast-track and eight short-stay beds, with separate entry, new treatment rooms and support spaces, a paediatric triage system and waiting area.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens visited the site today (Monday, May 1) to view construction on the dedicated space, which is being purpose built for families with the capacity to meet rising demand in future.

The emergency department is being created as a child-friendly environment with calming, muted tones and décor designed to help calm young patients.

Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) in partnership with Barwon Health and builder Kane Constructions, the project will create and sustain about 60 jobs during the peak of construction.

The new Barwon Women’s and Children’s will be built within the University Hospital Geelong precinct and will deliver additional capacity to meet increasing demand in the Barwon South West region.

“This new dedicated emergency department at University Hospital Geelong will ensure that young children and their families from across the region can access the very best emergency care when it’s needed most,” Ms Couzens said.