The Andrews Labor Government’s $60 million funding boost to buy the latest advances in medical equipment and modern engineering infrastructure for Victorian hospitals is now open for applications.

Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas today urged health services in Werribee to apply for a share in the $35 million Medical Equipment Replacement Program and the $25 million Engineering Infrastructure Replacement Program.

The Labor Government is ensuring all Victorians can access the high quality care and facilities they deserve, no matter where they live, and this means funding the latest state-of-the-art medical equipment.

The Medical Equipment Replacement Program supports hospitals to replace ageing life-saving pieces of medical equipment with the cutting edge technology to improve patient outcomes.

These could include the latest model CT scanners, x-ray rooms, MRI units, gamma cameras and angiography units.

Meanwhile, the Engineering Infrastructure Replacement Program will enable hospitals to replace ageing heating and air conditioning systems and nurse call communication systems, as well as upgrading electrical, water and fire services and lifts.

All Victorian acute public hospitals are eligible to apply.

The Victorian Budget 2016/17 delivered an extra $2.45 billion for health so hospitals can admit more patients, reduce waiting times, upgrade buildings and infrastructure, and keep Victorians healthy.

The Labor Government’s record investment will enable hospitals will be able to admit an extra 79,000 patients, treat an extra 43,000 patients in emergency departments across the state.

Further information is available at www.health.vic.gov.au/med-equip. Applications close on August 5.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee, Tim Pallas

“We’re putting patients first and turning around our health system so more patients can be treated sooner, closer to home.”

“Our dedicated doctors and nurses do a remarkable job. We’re supporting them by giving them the latest medical equipment they need to do what they do best – which is keeping us healthy and saving lives.”

 “I urge health services in Werribee to apply now for these vital grant programs that ensure patients across Victoria can access safe and reliable health facilities and the very best care.”