BANYULE: Austin upgrade underway
Work to upgrade the emergency department at the Austin Hospital at Heidelberg is now underway.
Melissa Horne, Health Infrastructure Minister, last week released the designs for the multi-million-dollar expansion which, once complete, will treat 30,000 more emergency patients each year.
Made possible by a $275 million Government investment, the new three level facility will deliver up to 29 more emergency treatment spaces, an upgraded short stay unit and improved clinical administration spaces.
The designs show the new public lobby and a ground level view of the new welcoming entrance.
“Inspired by organic shapes, the new emergency department will include the use of natural materials to create welcoming and therapeutic spaces in what can often be a high stress environment for patients, with the design also ensuring safety for the hardworking doctors, nurses and other emergency department staff,” said a Government representative.
Early works are already underway and, when complete, this project will ensure that more local families can continue to receive high quality care when they need it, closer to home.
Main construction works to expand the Austin Hospital’s emergency department are set to begin later this year and be completed in 2028.
The project is being delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Austin Health and Mercy Health.
“The Austin Hospital ED is one of Victoria’s busiest, and demand will only continue to grow – this new facility will mean we can deliver more care to locals sooner, and well into the future,” Ms Horne said.
“Invaluable insights from our dedicated doctors and nurses have helped shape the design for this critical expansion – ensuring it’s fit-for purpose and will serve patients and families for decades to come.”
Ivanhoe MLA Anthony Carbines said: “This significant investment will deliver state-of-the-art emergency medical services for locals, and this milestone gives us an exciting look at what an expanded Austin Hospital will look like in just a few short years.”
Pictured: Melissa Horne, State Minister