Queensland plans 2,200 hospital beds despite budget issues

Queensland's Health Minister has announced that several major hospital projects will continue, despite rising costs. The state government plans to move ahead with 15 projects, including new hospitals in Coomera, Toowoomba, Bundaberg, and Brisbane. The Capacity Expansion Program (CEP) was started in 2022 by the previous Labor government to add 2,200 hospital beds by 2028. Initially, this $9.78 billion plan included three new hospitals and 11 expansions. However, some construction has reportedly stalled. Local MP Tom Smith expressed concerns about the delay of the new Bundaberg Hospital, which is supposed to have 120 beds. Assistant Minister Trevor Watts indicated that funding is critical for the completion of the hospital. Shadow Health Minister Mark Bailey emphasized that the hospital must be finished by 2027 and noted that costs in the construction sector are rising. An independent review found that the costs of the program might reach $16 billion. Health Minister Tim Nicholls believes that Labor is spreading fear over these hospital projects. He said that the CEP will continue and that the government is determined to meet the healthcare needs across various regions in Queensland. However, Nicholls admitted that not all projects, including Bundaberg's hospital, have full funding yet. He committed to finding the necessary funds to complete the projects.