Tuesday, 28 July 2026

 Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (14:04): I rise today to acknowledge the recent progress towards the planning and construction of the new paediatric wing at Maroondah Hospital. The Allan Labor government has invested $20 million towards a dedicated children’s emergency department, along with a separate triage area and calming space. With legislation passed this month improving nurse-to-patient ratios, these upgrades could not come sooner. On Friday 26 June I had the pleasure of visiting Maroondah Hospital with the Labor candidate for Croydon Richard Farr. Here we saw firsthand the tireless work of Maroondah Hospital staff in delivering state-of-the-art medical care, despite working in what are really ageing facilities. The staff are what keep our hospitals running, but they need to do so with proper facilities. This is why it is essential that we maintain our commitment towards public health and continue to make sure our medical staff are looked after. It is only a Labor government that will continue to fund improvements in our hospitals and medical systems, and we will continue to deliver them as well. The goal of the opposition is only to privatise and cut essential medical services, making it harder for Victorians to access the best health care. All Victorians have the right to the best health care, and it is not and should never only be reserved for a select few.