The new Footscray Hospital will open on Wednesday 18 February.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas made the announcement on Wednesday morning during an interview with ABC Melbourne, who were broadcasting at the old hospital site on Gordon Street.
The announcement of 18 February as opening day means it will also be patient move day; when those staying at the old hospital will be transported 1.3 kilometres to the new hospital on the corner of Geelong and Ballarat roads.
Beginning at 7.30am, it’s estimated that about 180 patients will be transferred on the day, while the relocation of services, equipment and 4500 staff, will begin two weeks prior.
Western Health chair Professor Jill Hennessy said 18 February will be a milestone day for Melbourne’s west.
“We can’t wait to open the doors of this world-class facility to our patients, consumers and community,” Professor Hennessy said.
“Our new Footscray Hospital will be a symbol of excellence and innovation in patient care for generations to come, transforming healthcare in Melbourne’s west.”
Western Health chief executive Professor Russell Harrison welcomed the announcement and said staff were focused on being fully prepared for the move and opening.
“This exciting milestone is the result of years of careful planning and dedication from countless people across Western Health, in conjunction with the Victorian Government and our partners – and that meticulous preparation is ongoing,” Professor Harrison said.
“We are focused on ensuring a smooth and safe transition to our incredible new site and then continuing to provide the very best care to our patients and consumers.”
The 18 February opening will be almost five years to the day since construction work on the the $1.5 billion hospital began in March 2021.
The new hospital will have a capacity of more than 500 beds, 200 more than its predecessor, allowing it to treat an estimated 15,000 more patients and 20,000 more presentations at its emergency department each year.
It’s expected the new hospital will open below capacity, with the amount of beds to be scaled up over time.
The future of the Gordon Street site is still to be determined, with housing, a school and a park among the options.
