Work is underway on a new $45.3 million residential aged care facility in Orbost.
Victorian Minister for Mental Health, Ingrid Stitt, today announced the start of works and revealed the designs of the new 38-bed facility that will replace Orbost Regional Health’s ageing Lochiel House and Waratah Lodge facilities.
Featuring modern single rooms with private ensuites, the design will deliver a home-like feel and enhanced access to the surrounding natural environment.
Open area views, abundant natural light and garden areas will allow residents to ‘age in place’ in familiar and reassuring settings in their own town, that promote dignity and independence.
The new facility will also provide a dementia friendly environment that is better suited to supporting the mental health and complex care needs of older Victorians.
“Ageing in place is critically important for older Victorians, especially those in regional areas like Orbost and we’re delivering the care and facilities to support them to do this,” said Minister Stitt.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority and builder SJ Higgins, the project is expected to be completed in late 2026.
In a boost to the local economy, the project is also expected to create and sustain more than 135 construction industry jobs.
The project forms part of the $108.2 million Rural and Regional PSRAC Revitalisation Stage 1 to expand and refurbish public sector residential aged care facilities.
“We’re building and upgrading infrastructure at our public residential aged care services right across the state, giving older Victorians safer, tailored facilities to suit their needs,” said Minister for Health Infrastructure, Mary-Anne Thomas.
