The Andrews Labor Government is encouraging rural and regional health services across our region to submit applications for the latest round of the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF) to help deliver the world-class healthcare local communities deserve.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett today wrote to all health services across the Ripon electorate, recommending they apply for the latest round of funding.

RHIF provides vital government funding to rural and regional health services and agencies across Victoria. This ensures these services can continue to provide safe and efficient care to local communities.

Established in 2016, the fund is the largest program of its type in Victoria and has delivered 630 projects to date.

It delivers a variety of projects including theatre refurbishments, new waiting rooms and hospital beds, accessible paths and ramps, additional consulting rooms, expansion projects, equipment upgrades, and more.

Some local projects that have previously been successful include the development of student accommodation at Maryborough District Health Service, theatre redevelopment at East Grampians Health Service in Ararat, upgrades to the nursing home at Central Highlands Rural Health’s Creswick Campus, and Nursing Home upgrades at Beaufort and Skipton Health Service.

Submissions for the latest round of funding close at 5:00 pm on 11 September 2023. All eligible health services and agencies are encouraged to participate by familiarising themselves with application requirements and attending an upcoming online information webinar.

Full details on grant program guidelines or how to apply can be found by visiting the Victorian Health Building Authority’s website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas

“We’re giving our rural and regional health services the best facilities and the latest equipment so their hardworking staff can continue to provide the very best healthcare to local communities.”

“Victorians should get the care they need, close to home, no matter where they live – which is why we’re continuing to invest in regional and rural health services through our flagship Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“All Victorians deserve world-class healthcare – no matter where they live. This fund is a great opportunity for our local health services to ensure they can deliver quality care and support when it is needed, and where it is needed.”