Early works on a new $120 million cardiac facility at the Launceston General Hospital will begin next month, in what the state and federal government say will transform heart care across northern and north-west Tasmania.
The Northern Heart Centre is fully funded by the federal government.
It will be built on the Frankland Street side of the hospital, next to the Northern Integrated Care Services building.
The centre will include a 24-bed cardiac inpatient unit, two cardiac catheterisation labs and dedicated diagnostic and monitoring facilities.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the project would deliver modern cardiac services closer to home.
“Cardiovascular disease remains one of Tasmania’s most significant health challenges. This Centre will improve access to high-quality cardiac care, diagnosis and treatment, helping Tasmanians receive the care they need, when they need it,” he said.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said bringing the services together in one purpose-built location would strengthen care at the hospital and support staff.
Federal Assistant Health Minister Rebecca White said northern Tasmania had higher rates of heart disease than the national average.
“The dedicated care provided by the Northern Heart Centre will also help to take the pressure off the Launceston General Hospital freeing up bed capacity and taking pressure off the emergency department,” she said.
Paul McIntyre, chair of the Tasmanian Cardiac Network, said the state had the highest rate of cardiovascular disease in Australia.
He said the build was “a absolutely game changer” for communities in the north and north-west.
“That’s really what this is about, to ensure that all Tasmanians have access to the same heart health care,” McIntyre said.
Cardiac surgery will continue to be carried out at the Royal Hobart Hospital.
Fairbrother has been appointed to build the centre.
Preparatory works start at the end of October and are expected to take around 12 months, with main construction running for a further 24 months.
The company expects an average of 55 workers on site, peaking at around 80, including 20 apprentices.
Archer said works would be staged to limit disruption inside the working hospital.
The centre is due for completion in late 2029.
