The Allan Government’s evasive answers and loose media statements on the West Gippsland Hospital redevelopment and stages 2 and 3 of Bass Coast Health have left residents underwhelmed and justified in their scepticism.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath said Labor’s latest Gippsland hospital media announcement raises more questions than it answers.
“After promising Stage 2 the Wonthaggi Hospital redevelopment would be completed by 2027, the project has clearly stalled, while West Gippsland Hospital has been pushed even further into the never‑never,” Ms Bath said.
“Neither hospital project has a clear start date, construction timeline or defined deliverables which is clear indication of Labors failure to focus on what matters.”
Ms Bath said Baw Baw and Bass Coast shires are among the fastest‑growing parts of regional Victoria, and Labor’s failure to act was leaving local hospitals struggling to cope while patient demand grows.
“Labor’s inability to prioritise funding for regional healthcare is forcing both Wonthaggi and West Gippsland hospitals to operate beyond capacity, while healthcare workers buckle under escalating patient demand.
“Despite the best efforts of frontline staff, limited hospital capacity means patients are increasingly unable to be treated within recommended timeframes.
“The Allan Government must immediately release a clear construction and delivery timeline for both hospital projects.
“Residents deserve transparency and concrete answers – not vague words and excuses from Labor.”
