The Allan Labor Government is getting on with delivering world-class healthcare for families in Melbourne’s west, with main works now underway on the critical expansion of Werribee Mercy Hospital’s emergency department.

Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas today turned the first sod on the massive project, which will double the capacity of the emergency department – supporting an additional 25,000 patients every year.

The project will see patient treatment spaces expanded from 33 to 67 and deliver four new resuscitation bays, 16 short stay beds, 36 emergency care cubicles as well as a behavioural assessment room – meaning more locals can access the emergency care and treatment they need, closer to home.

The expanded facilities will also ensure our hardworking dedicated doctors, nurses, allied health workers and support services have a modern, world-class workplace designed to ensure they can deliver the best possible emergency care.

Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority, with Besix Watpac appointed as builder, the project is on track to be completed in 2026 and is expected to create and sustain more than 300 local construction industry jobs.

The project is part of a critical $280 million investment to boost capacity of the emergency departments at Werribee Mercy Hospital and Casey Hospital Berwick – two of Melbourne’s fastest growing suburbs

Locals in the west are already benefiting from the expansion of Werribee Mercy Hospital completed in 2018 – the more than $120 million project delivered new inpatient beds, new critical care beds, new operating theatres and 54 extra mental health beds.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas

“We’re upgrading the emergency department at the Werribee Mercy Hospital – so more locals can get the care they need, close to home in world-class facilities.”

“By doubling the treatment spaces, this project will also help to alleviate pressure on busy, nearby emergency departments and make it easier for ambulances to get back on the road.”

Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“A bigger, better emergency department at the Werribee Mercy Hospital will ensure people in our growing outer western suburbs have access to world-class facilities when a loved one gets sick or when an emergency occurs.”