Hansard debates

Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) (10:00): I was delighted to join the Minister for Health, Jenny Mikakos, this week in celebrating the landmark $162.7 million expansion of the Northern Hospital. The seven-storey tower has reached a new milestone with major structural work now complete, and this means that next year 10 000 patients will have access to world-class care close to home in Melbourne’s growing north. I am delighted that this is in addition to the Andrews Labor government’s investment in the Broadmeadows Hospital. These investments really matter because our hardworking doctors and nurses at Northern Health do an amazing job caring for people who need their help, and we are completing this redevelopment so they can change lives and save lives in our communities.

The seven-storey tower is part of the second stage of the redevelopment, which includes 96 new inpatient beds, three operating theatres and more treatment rooms, adding to the existing 360 multiday and same-day beds and a world-class intensive care unit.

I also want to acknowledge the spirit of the community. Minister Mikakos presented a certificate of appreciation to Epping resident Josie Minniti, a local legend who has raised more than $700 000 for Northern Hospital’s oncology unit. It is a wonderful achievement by a wonderful woman whose family is tragically touched by cancer. It just shows the fighting spirit that she has.