A $17 million funding boost will help reopen some of the dozens of beds closed because of Footscray Hospital’s dilapidated state.
But critics argue the state government funding, to be included in next month’s budget, is a “Band-Aid” solution to a crisis that requires a massive and growing injection of funds.
Health Minister Jill Hennessy said many of the wards and facilities at Footscray, dating back to the 1950s, failed to meet modern standards and community and patient expectations.
She said renovations would focus on three wards in the hospital’s south block, including the re-opening of 77 beds and an inpatient dialysis imaging unit.
“These urgent works will make sure our hardworking doctors and nurses at Footscray will be able to provide the safe and high-quality care patients in the west need and deserve,” she said.
“Melbourne’s west is one of the fastest growing areas in Australia – that’s why it’s so important we get to work on planning for the future healthcare needs of this community.”
Footscray MP Marsha Thomson said she would continue to advocate for Footscray Hospital.
‘Band-aid measure’
But western suburbs Greens MP Colleen Hartland said three wards and 73 beds would remain closed at the hospital.
“This is welcome, but [is] just a Band-Aid measure to keep remaining wards open for a few more years,” she said.
“The Andrews government has acknowledged the hospital is not up to standard, but has failed to commit to its redevelopment over the coming years. It’s not good enough.”
Western Health has been pushing for the demolition and redevelopment of the hospital’s south block and crumbling emergency department.
A briefing document prepared for the state government in 2014 warned that more than $300 million needed to be spent at the hospital to keep up with growing demand.
Despite continuing to push for the demolition option, Western Health operations executive director Russell Harrison said Western Health welcomed the $17 million in funding.
“The minister’s announcement means we can now move forward with refining plans for how to rebuild parts of the hospital,” he said.
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