- Published:
- Monday 26 February 2024
The new more than $500 million Barwon Women’s and Children’s in Geelong is another step closer, with builder, Built, appointed to deliver world-class women’s health (including maternity) and paediatric facilities.
A first look at the early design reveals how the flagship project will integrate within the busy University Hospital Geelong precinct – contemporary and purpose-built spaces will increase its capacity with additional multi-day beds, birthing suites, operating theatres and outpatient clinic rooms.
The project will also deliver a new neonatal and parent care unit to ensure families can remain together, with an expansion of the existing special care nursery that provides care for vulnerable and preterm babies in the first few weeks and months of life.
Locals have helped to shape the design of the new facility through the community consultative committee which includes community members and representatives from Barwon Health and Geelong Council.
The committee has ensured local views were 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.
Work to relocate the Endoscopy and Day Procedure Unit from the Gretta Volum Centre to the Youang Surgery Centre is set to begin soon, clearing the way for main construction works later this year.
The new Barwon Women’s and Children’s is expected to be completed in 2029 and will create and sustain 1,500 construction jobs at the peak of construction in a boost to the local economy.
For information please visit vhba.vic.gov.au/health/hospitals/barwon-womens-and-childrens.
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
”Being able to access world-class paediatric and maternity care closer to home is important for regional Victorians and this new facility will mean just that for families across Geelong and the Surf Coast .”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“We have worked closely with the community and local organisations to make sure the design of this world-class facility best suits the needs of women and children right across Geelong.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Lara Ella George
“This critical health infrastructure project will ensure the region has a world-class, modern facility to treat and care for local women and children for decades to come.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“We are another step closer to delivering this state-of-the-art facility that will provide the very best care for women and kids right across Geelong and surrounding communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
“This new facility will be a major boost for women’s and children’s healthcare across Barwon – the appointment of a builder is exciting progress on this important project.”