Multiplex named for delayed Geraldton project

Contractor Multiplex has secured the tender for the long-delayed Geraldton Health Campus redevelopment, with work to begin two years after the initial completion date.

The $122.7 million redevelopment project is expected to expand the campus emergency department and create a new intensive care unit co-located with an improved high-dependency unit.

It will also include the establishment of an integrated mental health service at the regional hospital.

Work is expected to commence in 2024, with the first stage of the project being the addition of 400 car bays, a new ambulance entry and revamp of the hospital entrance.

The new timeline comes after the project was originally slated for completion in 2022, with delays following a major cost blow out from $73.2 million to $122.7 million.

The auditor-general’s 2023 major projects transparency report revealed the Geraldton Health Campus redevelopment was enduring the longest delay period, 58 months, of the state's major projects. 

Completion is now planned for 2027.

Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the redevelopment would be the single biggest investment in Geraldton Hospital since the Gallop government redeveloped it in the early 2000s.

"The construction of the main works will include an expanded emergency department, a new intensive care unit co-located with an improved high-dependency unit, and an integrated mental health service,” she said.

"We will work with the contractor to ensure this project can be delivered as quickly as possible for the people of Geraldton."

The state government's expression of interest invitation attracted responses from Australian Building Construction Company and Lend Lease, as well as sucessful bidder Multiplex.

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said the project had been her number one priority since being elected.

"The redevelopment of Geraldton Health Campus will provide our community and the broader region with modern facilities and expanded services,” she said.

"I'm proud we are delivering this important project for Geraldton and the Mid West, and I'd like to thank the minister for health for her commitment to this project."