The Victorian government has revealed plans for a state-of-the-art $62.8 million aged care facility in Mansfield, signalling a significant investment in rural healthcare infrastructure.
The project, part of a broader $108.2 million initiative to revitalise public sector residential aged care in rural and regional areas, aims to address the growing needs of older Victorians in the High Country.
Set to replace the ageing Buckland House Aged Care facility, the new 30-bed centre will be constructed adjacent to the existing Bindaree Retirement Centre. The latter will also undergo refurbishment, creating a comprehensive aged care complex for the region.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt emphasised the project’s focus on resident comfort and well-being. “We’re ensuring residents in Mansfield and surrounds receive state-of-the-art care in a home-like environment – with private bedrooms, bathrooms and an abundance of access to green spaces,” she stated.
The facility’s design prioritises a dementia-friendly environment, allowing residents to “age in place” – a crucial factor for maintaining community connections in rural areas. Each of the 30 rooms will feature private ensuite bathrooms, and the complex will include dedicated dining, lounge, and social areas.
Acknowledging the therapeutic benefits of nature, the designers have incorporated ample natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. This approach aims to boost residents’ physical and mental well-being while encouraging social interaction.
Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas highlighted the government’s commitment to improving aged care infrastructure across Victoria. “We’re building and upgrading infrastructure at our public residential aged care services right across Victoria, giving older Victorians safe, tailored facilities to suit their needs,” she said.
The project is expected to generate over 180 construction jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Additional employment opportunities will arise once the facility becomes operational.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes expressed enthusiasm for the project’s progress, stating, “With a builder appointed and designs for this state-of-the-art facility now revealed, communities across Victoria’s High Country can look forward to seeing shovels in the ground on this project in coming months.”
Construction firm A W Nicholson has been appointed to deliver the project in partnership with the Victorian Health Building Authority and Mansfield District Hospital. The new facility is slated for completion in late 2027, marking a new era in aged care for the Mansfield community and surrounding areas.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
