The Tasmanian Government in Australia has announced the development of a new Mental Health Precinct in Launceston as part of the 10-year, A$580m ($378m) redevelopment of Launceston General Hospital.

This initiative aims to enhance mental health services in Northern Tasmania.

The Northern Mental Health Precinct, located at the current Viewpoint site on Frankland Street, will replace the Northside Unit and is expected to be operational by 2027.

It is designed to provide a comprehensive suite of mental health services, including acute care and community-based support, in a modern environment.

The $80m facility will feature a 30-bed acute mental health inpatient unit, a five-bed Short Stay Unit, and integrated community services such as a Recovery College and a Safe Haven.

Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Guy Barnett said that the precinct will make a difference for Northern Tasmania.

The Minister also mentioned the inclusion of a Development Application for the demolition of existing structures, paving the way for construction tenders to be called in early 2025.

Barnett further added: “Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future has a strong focus on ensuring there is more access to better mental health services for Tasmanians.”

Construction works are expected to get underway in mid-2025 and will be in line with the LGH Masterplan which outlines progressive development in the coming ten years.

The precinct's design also addresses accessibility concerns, with on-site parking planned for both staff and consumers.

To compensate for the loss of public parking at the site during construction, a temporary car park will be established at the former Anne O’Byrne site.

Recently, Tasmania released tenders to invite interested companies for operating a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) in Bridgewater, a suburb region of Hobart.