Main works to expand the emergency department at Werribee Mercy Hospital in Victoria, Australia are in progress, with the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) having selected construction giant Besix Watpac to deliver the project.  

This multi-million-dollar initiative is designed to accommodate an additional 25,000 patient visits annually, helping alleviate the pressure on the current emergency department. 

With the expansion, the number of treatment spaces will climb from 33 to 67.  

This includes the addition of 16 short stay beds, four new resuscitation bays, as well as 36 emergency care cubicles.  

The project is part of a broader A$280m ($188m) investment by the Victorian government aimed at enhancing emergency units’ capacity at both Werribee Mercy Hospital and Casey Hospital in Berwick.  

Work on the Werribee Mercy Hospital expansion is due to complete in 2026, with the move anticipated to generate over 300 jobs in the construction sector. 

This follows a A$120m expansion completed in 2018, which added new critical care units, inpatient and mental health beds, and operating theatres.  

Victoria Health Infrastructure Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said: “We are upgrading the emergency department at the Werribee Mercy Hospital, so more locals can get the care they need, close to home in world-class facilities. 

“By doubling the treatment spaces, this project will also help to alleviate pressure on busy, nearby emergency departments and make it easier for ambulances to get back on the road.” 

Werribee member Tim Pallas added: “A bigger, better emergency department at the Werribee Mercy Hospital will ensure people in our growing outer western suburbs have access to world-class facilities when a loved one gets sick or when an emergency occurs.”