Western Victoria Region
Sarah MANSFIELD (Western Victoria) (12:51): (106) My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Health Infrastructure. Melton residents in my electorate of Western Victoria have been calling for a hospital since 2018. Melton is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Australia. The population is expected to surge from 210,000 people this year to 315,000 people by 2036. Residents have no easy access to a major hospital. At present their closest service is a 42-bed regional facility in Bacchus Marsh. Last year the government finally committed to the project, which the community has welcomed, so it is disappointing for them to learn that from day one this new hospital, when it opens in 2029 – the proposed 274-bed facility – will already be stretched beyond capacity. My question to the minister is: why have you not included the projected population growth of the Melton area in your planning for this new hospital?