$1.2bn new Bundaberg Hospital nears construction, supporting 2880 jobs

The Queensland Government continues its streak in delivering better healthcare services and jobs across the State with the announcement of CPB Contractors as managing contractor for the $1.2 billion new Bundaberg Hospital. 

The appointment of a managing contractor paves the way for major construction to commence on the project. 

“Our government is delivering on our commitment to provide Queenslanders right around the state with better healthcare, closer to home. 

“This new hospital will expand the capacity in the Wide Bay Region while improving the availability of surgical, paediatric and mental health facilities for those who need it. 

“But this investment isn’t just about bricks and mortar – it’s about creating more frontline nurse, doctor and allied health jobs for those who live and work in the region, while providing the care Queenslanders need,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said. 

The new Bundaberg Hospital will deliver over 121 new beds across a range of improved and expanded healthcare services – including intensive care, coronary, medical, surgical, paediatric, rehabilitation and mental health units. 

The project will also include an expanded emergency department as well as enhanced clinical support services. 

In addition, the new Bundaberg Hospital is estimated to support up to 2,880 jobs. 

“Today is another landmark announcement in the construction of the Wide Bay’s largest ever health infrastructure project. 

“Putting a name to the company tasked with building this $1.2 billion commitment, puts to bed any doubt that we would deliver on our election promise to build Bundaberg’s brand-new hospital. 

“When completed, the new hospital will not only provide the highest quality of healthcare with additional services and strengthened university partnerships, it will also be one of the largest sites for creation of jobs and employment for Bundy locals,” Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said. 

The new Bundaberg Hospital is one of three brand new hospitals announced under Queensland’s Health and Hospitals Plan. 

Early works to establish access to the new hospital site via an extension of Johanna Boulevard, near Eggmolesse Street, were completed earlier this year. 

Design and enabling works will continue to progress this year and major construction on the project is due to begin in 2024. 

Weather and construction conditions permitting, the new Bundaberg Hospital is expected to be completed in the second half of 2027. 

“Right now, we are delivering the biggest program dedicated to new hospitals and new beds in Queensland’s history through our Health and Hospitals Plan. 

“The Palaszczuk Government’s $1.2 billion investment in the new Bundaberg Hospital is the largest health investment the Wide Bay region has ever seen. 

“As the health needs of the Wide Bay community evolve at a rapid pace, this new hospital will ensure we can continue to provide the care they need now and into the future,” Minister for Mental Health, Health and Ambulance Services, and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman said. 

CPB Contractors will deliver the detailed design for Stage 1 of the project based on the Queensland Government-preferred two stage managing contractor model. The company is required to deliver a value for money guarantee price for the project before the main construction commences on Stage 2. 

“The Wide Bay Hospital and Health Board and Service are thrilled to reach this important milestone. 

“This landmark project will transform Bundaberg and our surrounding communities, providing more beds and treatment spaces and enabling more people to receive more high-quality healthcare services closer to home. 

“Our enthusiastic WBHHS staff – both clinical and non-clinical – are looking forward to working with CPB Contractors to progress this game changing project,” Wide Bay Health and Hospital Service Chief Executive Deborah Carroll said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Queensland Health (1, 2); Build Australia