Ballan Hospital will receive $2 million to provide a day procedure centre if the Coalition government is re-elected in Saturday’s state poll.
Health Minister David Davis visited Ballan last Saturday to make the announcement, which honours an election commitment by the state government in 2010 to upgrade the hospital.
Mr Davis said the funding would provide two day procedure suites, which would enable local patients to access procedures closer to home.
“This commitment will enable Ballan to provide day surgeries to the community of Moorabool,” Mr Davis said.
“An expansion of services at Ballan Hospital will better cater for the health service needs of this region, now and for years to come.”
The announcement came as Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell called on candidates to “show us the money for Moorabool” in the lead-up to Saturday’s poll.
He said he was still waiting on all candidates, MPs and ministers standing in the election to “show their hand” and pledge their commitment to fund vital infrastructure in Moorabool Shire.
Cr Tatchell said it was very disappointing MPs and candidates from different political parties had visited the shire many times throughout the poll campaign but promised little for key projects like the Halletts Way bypass.
“The shire has challenging growth to manage that can’t be done exclusively on the back of the ratepayer,” he said. “The state government is the key partner in helping us provide for the community’s needs.
“We can’t be waiting until after the election to find out if a project isn’t even going to be considered for another four years.
“We’re still $1.92 million short of what is required for the Halletts Way bypass. It’s too important to be left in the dark about whether these funds will be committed.”
For a list of Moorabool Shire Council key priority projects, visit www.moorabool.vic.gov.au.
