The Nationals’ Melina Bath is demanding the Allan Labor Government release a construction timeline for Stage 2 and 3 of the Wonthaggi Hospital redevelopment after raising community concerns about its delivery in state parliament.
Ms Bath said despite $290 million being a Labor election promise in September 2022, concrete funding for bricks and mortar construction is nowhere to be seen.
“The 2025/26 State Budget does not have a dedicated line item for Stage 2 or 3 construction, raising serious questions about Labor’s commitment to delivering this vital project.
“The Allan Government’s evasive responses and loose commitments have left residents justified in their scepticism, wondering if the hospital commitment was nothing more than a pre-election stunt.
“Despite promising the project would be completed by 2027, the Wonthaggi Hospital redevelopment is clearly stagnated.”
Ms Bath said Bass Coast’s population is projected to grow by 55 per cent over the next five years.
“In one of Victoria’s fastest growing regions, Labor has left Wonthaggi Hospital struggling to cope and healthcare workers buckling under escalating patient demand.
“Emergency presentations at Wonthaggi Hospital increased by 3,663 in the four years to June 2024, while the number of patients presenting in the emergency cohort surged by a staggering 153 per cent.
“Performance statistics show despite the best efforts of healthcare workers. the hospital’s limited capacity means patients cannot be treated within recommended times.
“The Allan Government must stop hiding and release a clear construction timeline for the Wonthaggi hospital.
“Residents deserve transparency, concrete answers and not more vague words and excuses from Labor.”
