The first stage of the $5.1 million redevelopment of the Northern Integrated Care Service (NICS) building at the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) has been successfully completed.
Jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, the two-staged redevelopment aims to position the LGH precinct as a national centre of research excellence, supported by the Clifford Craig Foundation.
Stage one has delivered modern office, meeting, and breakout spaces on the ground floor of the NICS building, creating a collaborative and comfortable environment for staff, including podiatry, endocrine, infectious diseases, and smoking cessation services.
Work has now transitioned to level one, which will house the new Research and Innovation Centre, developed in collaboration with the Clifford Craig Foundation, and a dedicated space for the Sir John Ramsay Memorial Library.
Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, said the completion of the first stage of works on the NICS building is an exciting milestone, which is part of the 10-year $647.5 million Launceston General Hospital Precinct Masterplan.
"Relocation of the research and library facilities into the NICS building will enhance Tasmania's research capabilities and create additional space for clinical services within the main hospital building," Minister Petrusma said.
"The redeveloped facilities will provide a valuable resource in the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals in Northern Tasmania by offering attractive research opportunities.
"As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we are committed to building an even better health system, and the LGH redevelopment will provide world-class facilities for Tasmanians."
Quotes from Labor Senator for Tasmania, Helen Polley:
"The Albanese Labor Government is committed to improving the health of all Tasmanians through the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) redevelopment and Masterplan.
"The LGH must always be equipped with the right personnel and resources to provide quality care and world class medical research and as a government we are committed to making this a reality."
Clifford Craig Foundation Chief Executive, Vanessa Cahoon, said retaining and expanding our skilled medical research teams is vital to improving health outcomes for Northern Tasmanians.
"This investment in health infrastructure is exciting news for our community and promises to create a lasting, generational impact on our region," Ms Cahoon said.
The NICS building will continue to remain operational throughout the redevelopment and construction is expected to be completed by mid-2025.
