The Andrews Labor Government is one step close to delivering the new Barwon Women’s and Children’s Hospital with four leading construction companies now shortlisted to build the world-class maternity and paediatric facility in Geelong.
Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas has announced that Built, CPB Contractors, Kane Constructions and Watpac Constructions will be vying to deliver the new and expanded women’s and children’s facilities.
The more than $500 million investment will provide world-class women’s health including maternity and paediatric facilities and deliver additional capacity to ensure families in Geelong and surrounding communities can continue to access the very best care, close to home.
Locals will help shape the design of the new flagship Barwon Women’s and Children’s, with the appointment of a community consultative committee for the project.
Chaired by the Member for Geelong Christine Couzens MP, community members were appointed to the committee following an expressions of interest process, and will be joined by representatives from Barwon Health, City of Greater Geelong, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative.
The committee will ensure local views are considered in the planning and design of the new facility – including the patient and family experience, family and outdoor space and accessibility – through a series of workshops.
The new facility will grow Barwon Health’s capacity to deliver maternity and pediatric care through delivering multi day beds, birthing suites, induction spaces, operating theatres and outpatient clinic rooms.
The successful builder is expected to be announced in the coming months, with major construction to commence next year. The project will support 1,500 jobs at the peak of construction.
The new hospital will integrate with existing University Hospital Geelong services and will deliver additional capacity to meet increasing demand in the region.
The Labor Government is also delivering a new $20 million children’s emergency department (ED) at University Hospital which will provide kids with the best care in a calm and reassuring environment. The new children’s ED is set to open next year.
As stated by Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas
“This is another exciting step forward for the new Barwon Women’s and Children’s – creating more local jobs and giving local families the world-class maternity and paediatric services they need and deserve, closer to home.”
As stated by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“The new Barwon Women’s and Children’s is a key investment into the future of this region, we’re making sure the local community tell us what matters to them.”
