The Allan Labor Government is ensuring older Victorians receive the high-quality care they deserve, closer to home – with work beginning on a new $45.3 million residential aged care facility in Orbost.

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.

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.

The Labor Government continues to deliver record investment in public sector aged care, including more than $162 million in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to redevelop and upgrade public sector residential aged care services.

Quote attributable to Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt

“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.” 

Quote attributable to Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas

“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.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh

“Work is underway on this huge investment in the health of Orbost families who will have a modern, safer aged care facility to support them or their loved ones into the future.”