State opposition promises to build an infectious diseases hospital

FIRST with NEIL MITCHELL

The state opposition has pledged to build a new infectious diseases hospital in Victoria if they’re successful at the next election.

Shadow Health Minister Georgie Crozier says the state was “very underprepared with COVID” and a dedicated infectious diseases facility would assist with the response to future outbreaks.

“It’d be 100 negative pressure beds,” she told Neil Mitchell.

The opposition says the facility would include both clinical and research expertise, and should be located close to a facility where research is already underway, such as the Burnet Institute.

“The AMA has already said The Alfred needs to redevelop, so it could be considered there,” Ms Crozier said.

The opposition estimates the facility would cost $500 million to build.

Victoria’s last infectious diseases hospital, Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital, was closed by the Jeff Kennett’s Liberal government in 1996.

Press PLAY below to hear more about the promise