The Allan Labor Government is ensuring older Victorians receive the high-quality care they need and deserve, closer to home, with work underway on a multi-million-dollar redevelopment at Mansfield District Hospital.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt announced the start of works on the new $62.8 million facility, which will transform the delivery of aged care services in Mansfield.
The new 30-bed facility will replace the ageing Buckland House and be built next to the existing 42-bed Bindaree Retirement Centre, which will also be refurbished and provide an upgraded facility for residents.
Recently revealed designs for the new facility showcase 30 modern single rooms and private ensuite bathrooms, a dedicated kitchen, dining, lounge and break-out sitting areas for residents to stay connected with each other as well as loved ones.
The facility will be designed to maximise the benefits of its natural surroundings, offering residents open views and plenty of natural light, recognises the positive impacts of green spaces and fresh air on physical and mental wellbeing, while also fostering greater social interaction.
The new facility will also provide a dementia friendly environment that is better suited to supporting the mental health and complex care needs of older Victorians.
The dementia-friendly design ensures residents can 'age in place', which is especially valuable in regional areas like Mansfield - allowing residents to stay near their support networks, preserving vital family and community connections as their care needs grow.
The Victorian Health Building Authority is delivering the project in partnership with Mansfield District Hospital and A W Nicholson. It is expected to be completed late 2027.
The project is expected to create and sustain more than 180 construction industry jobs during the peak of construction.
The project forms part of the $108.2 million Rural and Regional PSRAC Revitalisation Stage 1 to expand and refurbish public sector residential aged care facilities in Mansfield and Orbost.
As stated by Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt
"With shovels now in the ground, Mansfield locals can look forward to seeing this new multi-million-dollar public aged care facility start to take shape over coming months."
"Ageing in place is critically important for older Victorians, especially those in regional areas like Mansfield and we're delivering the care and facilities to support them to do this."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"With more open spaces and access to fresh air, this redevelopment at Mansfield District Hospital will also contribute to a better quality of life and opportunities for social interaction between residents and loved ones."
