Health workers accommodation nears completion

Last week Minister for Rural and Regional Development Michaela Settle visited Wonthaggi to inspect new accommodation being built for health workers.

Accompanied by Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale, the minister visited the new staff accommodation at the hospital, which is almost completed.

External works on the new two-storey development are complete. Bayside Health is now preparing to fit out the rooms ahead of their opening later this year.

The accommodation provides 20 self-contained rooms for doctors, nurses, visiting specialists and allied health staff, with shared indoor and outdoor spaces providing a supportive, convenient and social environment for staff.

The government said accommodation will help attract and retain more skilled staff and expand care and services available at Wonthaggi Hospital across Bass Coast and South Gippsland.

"This new accommodation will make a real difference in Wonthaggi, helping Bayside Health attract and retain the skilled doctors, nurses and health professionals who keep this community healthy," said Minister Settle.

Ms Crugnale described the investment as vital for the region.

"It translates to being able to offer onsite accommodation to skilled health professionals, and stronger local health services," she said.

It is hoped the new building will ease pressure on the local rental market by providing health workers with dedicated accommodation.

Bayside Health Regional Care Group CEO, Louise Sparkes described the facility as a "game-changer", saying it increased their ability to attract clinical professionals to the region.

"It will help us increase the level of quality care our community can access locally, in many cases, saving them from travelling for treatment.

"We appreciate the Victorian Government's support to help us deliver the health care our community needs."