Work is progressing on the Andrews Labor Government’s landmark redevelopment of the Thomas Embling Hospital in Fairfield, with new designs for the facility’s upgrade revealed.
The project is set to reduce wait times for forensic mental health assessment and treatment, support the rehabilitation and recovery of patients and increase access to services for female patients.
The latest artist impressions detail the new entry complex for the forensic mental health facility, including the lobby, staff lounge and family and carer areas.
The project delivers on a key recommendation from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System to have co-design at the heart of all new mental health infrastructure.
This co-design process incorporates the knowledge of Victorians with lived experience of mental health concerns, carers, families and clinicians to help shape the planning and design.
The first two stages of the redevelopment will deliver a dedicated 34-bed women’s precinct, a 48-bed medium security men’s facility, a new entry complex, onsite carpark and administration facilities.
Creating an additional 750 construction jobs, stages one and two are now underway with construction of the main buildings due to be complete in late 2024.
As stated by Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas
“This landmark project will change the way forensic mental health services are delivered in Victoria and ensure people most at risk can access the urgent care they need in a modern and recovery-focused environment.”
“We aren’t wasting a moment delivering this important project and so many more, as we rebuild Victoria’s mental health system from the ground up.”
“Importantly, we’re putting co-design at the heart of this expansion, with the first-hand experiences of Victorians, carers, and clinicians shaping the planning and design of the project.“
