Over 700 construction jobs are set to open in Victoria over the next while as healthcare facilities in the region get a much-needed makeover, according to minister for health and ageing David Davis.
"Hospitals and aged care capital works projects funded in the budget will deliver a significant jobs boom across Victoria, with the creation of more than 700 new construction jobs," Mr Davis said in a statement released yesterday (16 May).
At the centre of the improvements to health infrastructure is the upgrade of Charlton Hospital. A $22.7 million project, construction of a new facility comes after the prior premises were hit hard by flooding in the region in January 2011.
"The floods saw the Charlton campus forced to close its doors for the first time since commencing service delivery," Mr Davis said.
"I am delighted to announce $22.7 million for the construction of a new facility that will provide the Charlton community with a modern health service well into the future."
Construction work is predicted to start mid-way through next year but planning is already well underway. A dedicated team is working hard during the development phase and surveys are being conducted onsite.
"A preliminary site assessment has commenced with the design phase set to commence in July 2012," Mr Davis added.