The Victorian Government has named the Exemplar consortium as the preferred bidder for the new Bendigo Hospital project.

This is a significant milestone for one of the largest regional healthcare projects in Australia,” Premier Denis Napthine said.

“Our $630 million commitment is unparalleled and will ensure the communities of Bendigo and the north west have access to top-notch health care and specialist services.

“This project will generate more than 770 jobs and deliver enormous flow-on benefits for the community,” Dr Napthine said.

“Construction will begin shortly with the project to be completed in 2016.”

The project will deliver:

  • a new hospital built on one site at Barnard Street;
  • 372 new beds and 10 new operating theatres;
  • an integrated cancer centre and mental health unit; and
  • a helipad to be built on top of a new multi-story car park on the Lucan Street site. A bridge link will connect the car park to the main hospital site, making it easy for patients and visitors to get to the hospital and other amenities.
  • a childcare and wellness centre;
  • 128 serviced apartments and 15 apartments for short stay accommodation;
  • new kitchen, supply and linen handling facility within the new hospital;
  • 180 seat conference facility;
  • a large atrium as the entrance with retail, cafes and multiple internal courtyards;
  • enhanced landscaping across the entire hospital precinct;
  • refurbishment and re-use of some heritage buildings; and
  • the latest integrated technology nurse call system.