Residents are being assured that Redcliffe Hospital’s expansion, promising around 204 new beds, will proceed despite a state-wide hospital program facing a potential $6 billion budget increase.
State-Wide Hospital Program Under Scrutiny
The Queensland government’s plan to boost hospital capacity, known as the Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), is under review due to concerns about escalating costs. Originally budgeted at $9.78 billion, the program, which includes the Redcliffe Hospital expansion, is now estimated to cost $16 billion.
The CEP, launched in 2022 by the previous government, aims to deliver 2,200 extra hospital beds across the state by 2028. This includes new hospitals in areas such as Bundaberg, Toowoomba, and Coomera and expansions of existing facilities like Redcliffe Hospital.
Redcliffe Expansion Remains a Priority
Health Minister Tim Nicholls confirmed that the Redcliffe Hospital expansion and other key projects will continue. This assurance came after concerns were raised about potential delays and funding shortfalls. The expansion is crucial to the government’s plan to address the growing demand for healthcare services in the region. The project is set to deliver approximately 204 additional beds to the Redcliffe Hospital. The government acknowledged that the original budget for the whole CEP program was insufficient.
Funding and Timing Concerns
The government is assessing the funding required to complete the CEP projects, including the Redcliffe expansion. Despite the increased costs, they are working to ensure the projects are delivered as efficiently as possible. The government stated that delays had already happened under the previous Labor government.
The opposition has expressed concern about the potential impact of funding issues on the timely completion of the projects. They emphasised that the Redcliffe expansion is a vital project for the community and should not be delayed.
Community Impact
The Redcliffe community is closely watching the development of the hospital expansion. The extra beds are anticipated to alleviate pressure on existing hospital services and improve residents’ access to healthcare. The government has stressed its commitment to delivering the necessary healthcare infrastructure for all Queenslanders, including those in Redcliffe.
Published Date 25-March-2025