By Sumeyya Ilanbey
The beleaguered Ballan GP super clinic has been thrown a lifeline, with the state government announcing an “urgent” $500,000 assistance package.
Health Minister Jill Hennessy announced on Thursday the package was a short-term grant, which will be repaid once Ballan District Health and Care improves, and ensures, its long-term financial sustainability.
The clinic has been grappling with financial difficulties for at least the past four years, culminating in its chief executive Wayne Weaire resigning last week.
Board member Paul Tatchell had called on the state government to step in and step up, saying services and jobs would be slashed unless the clinic’s finances could be turned around.
Ms Hennessy said this financial arrangement would ensure the clinic could “find its feet again” and ensure its long-term viability.
“The Ballan District Health and Care sits at the heart of the local community and we have to do everything we can to protect it,” Ms Hennessy said.
“We’ll never turn our backs on the hard-working rural and community health services that regional and rural Victorians depend on.”
More to come.
