Construction has begun on a purpose-built hospice in Launceston, a project decades in the making for Northern Tasmania.
Local contractor VOS Construction and Joinery will transform the Allambi Building within the Launceston General Hospital precinct into a 12-bed hospice and respite facility.
The project is funded by a $20 million federal government investment and will provide round-the-clock specialist care for people with life-limiting conditions, along with their families and carers.
The Allambi site on Howick Street in South Launceston was chosen for its location within the LGH precinct, giving it close access to existing clinical services, public transport and parking.
The building is more than 100 years old and was already in need of significant work, including a new roof.
Tasmanian Health Minister Bridget Archer said the hospice has been designed to create a welcoming, home-like environment.
“The facility will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing a peaceful and dignified setting for patients while maintaining strong connections to the established gardens and courtyards that make the Allambi site unique,” she said.
Archer paid tribute to former hospice nurse Barbara Baker and the Friends of the Northern Hospice, calling it “a really proud and somewhat emotional moment” to see construction begin.
Baker, who has campaigned for the hospice for close to two decades, described it as “almost one of the best days of our life.”
She said the facility would ease pressure on the LGH by reducing bed block and allowing patients to be admitted directly rather than going through the emergency department.
“A bed in a hospice is about half the cost of one in an acute hospital,” Baker said.
Each room will open onto a veranda with garden access and there will be no strict visiting hours or mealtimes.
Baker said 12 beds is the recommended number for now but acknowledged more would likely be needed in future.
Federal Member for Bass Jess Teesdale said the project was becoming a reality because of the federal investment.
“This new hospice will give patients and their families access to specialist care in a dedicated, purpose-built facility, providing comfort, dignity and support during incredibly difficult times,” she said.
Senator Helen Polley, who campaigned alongside Baker for around 17 years, said it was “amazing to see all that hard work” come to fruition.
The hospice is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
