Land located for Pine Rivers satellite hospital

The Palaszczuk Government is another step closer to delivering on a key election commitment to establish a satellite hospital in Pine Rivers.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the parcel of land at Dohles Rocks Road, Kallangur was an ideal location for the health hub.

“This is all about investing in health and investing in infrastructure,” the Premier said.

“It’s about creating jobs, increasing the capacity of our health system, and strengthening the economy – all vital to our COVID-19 economic recovery plan.

“Satellite hospitals will take pressure off our health system by easing the demand on major hospitals and also support hundreds of jobs for Queenslanders.

“Caboolture, Redlands, Pine Rivers and the Gold Coast are among seven areas where satellite hospitals are being built to under our $265 million election commitment.

“This is the first time this has been done in Australia, and it will bring new and improved health services to the heart of growing local communities”

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the new satellite hospitals would help take pressure off nearby emergency departments.

“Caboolture, Redlands, Pine Rivers and the Gold Coast have all experienced significant growth in recent years, and that has seen increased demand for health services,” Minister D’Ath said.

“Now is the right time to invest in additional infrastructure to make sure the residents in these growth corridors continue to get quality health care.

“A range of services are being considered for these satellite hospitals, including community health services, ambulatory and low acuity day therapy services such as renal dialysis, chemotherapy, complex wound management, urgent care for minor injury and illness, and outpatient activities.

“A business case for the whole Satellite Hospital Program is being prepared to identify which services will be offered at each location.

“The economic benefits will be significant with the satellite hospital program to support up to 773 local jobs as it’s rolled out.”

Construction is expected to take around 12 months following completion of the business case and acquisition of land.

Deputy Premier and Member for Murrumba Steven Miles said his electorate and surrounding suburbs have experienced significant growth – and that’s put pressure on health delivery.

“The rapid population increase has seen heightened demand on our health services – and this satellite hospital will help meet that need, and ease the pressure on hospitals.

“Now is the right time to invest in additional infrastructure to make sure the residents in this area continue to get quality health care.”

Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd said the satellite hospital will provide many benefits to her constituents.

“This will make such a big difference to people in Pine Rivers – it will mean less stress on our main hospital and easier access to services – it’s a win, win.”

Member for Kurwongbah Shane King said he’s been a strong advocate for increased health services, and he’s pleased to see the satellite hospital is one step closer.

“This is a real game changer – it’s exactly what is needed to take the pressure of ED’s and provide an even better health service in this area,” Mr King said.

Construction is expected to take around 12 months following completion of the business case and acquisition of land.

ENDS

Media contact: Lucy Collier 0409 461 324