Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative welcomes first patients into new medical and regional health hub

The new dedicated stand-alone medical clinic and district health hub has welcomed its first patients and is now bringing communities throughout the greater western region of Victoria together.

With Aboriginal themes at the forefront of the design, this hub brings together high quality medical, health and community services under the one roof, so patients can get the treatment they need in a culturally welcoming environment.

Featuring ceiling lights curved in linear snake patterns, the facility also boasts a range of Aboriginal art as well as portraits of Elders and Founding Members to celebrate Aboriginal culture and promote understanding and respect within the community.

Integrating general practice rooms with specialist mental health and alcohol and other drugs consulting rooms allows for better coordinated care planning and greater interaction of services, including smoother cross referrals to the different services and programs offered by the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative.

Learn more about the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative Medical and Regional Health Hub via our dedicated project page.

Funding regional health infrastructure

The Victorian Government's Regional Health Infrastructure Fund invested $6m towards this project, with the remaining $2.5m contributed by the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative to purchase the adjoining land.

The total investment allowed for the expansion of the existing premises and the build of the new facility to expand and create additional space for specialist medical and health-related services.

The Victorian Government established the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund to rebuild and refurbish rural and regional health facilities, ensuring all Victorians can access high quality care and facilities, no matter where they live.