State govt announces $6m in funding for a Barossa hospital after decades of discussion

After three decades of deliberation, the state government has put up millions of dollars for a brand new hospital in the Barossa Valley. See the details.

After 30 years the Barossa is a step closer to a new hospital after $6m in funding was allocated to the project.

Outgoing Schubert MP Stephan Knoll announced the state government funding allocation which will finalise design, scope of services, acquisition of land and early site works.

Earlier this year there were doubts about the project with no public funding or commitments to the project until now.
Mr Knoll said the need for a Barossa hospital was highlighted almost 30 years ago, but neither side of government had ever seen the proposal through.

Pictured L-R: Dr David Adams, Dr Adrian Griscti, Dr Bill Holmes, Ashton Hurn, Stephan Knoll MP, Dr Lisa White, Barry Swan, Dr Bill Gransbury, John Stokes, Tim Gransbury. Picture supplied

Reactions to the announcement on social media were sceptical, with some questioning whether the cash commitment would see the hospital built.

“Every year this is promised and we’re told the decision is made, land is purchased or the site is being measured, we remember each and every year the promises, so please do it,” Bryony Zeunert wrote.

Plans for a hospital have been endorsed by both sides of government since 1993, but Mr Knoll said this allocation was the strongest step forward on the plan to date.

“This is the first time we have seen money included in a budget to deliver the hospital and this will give people confidence it is finally going to get built.”

Mr Knoll was joined for the announcement on Wednesday by Liberal candidate Ashton Hurn, who will look to take his place as the Member for Schubert.

Ms Hurn said the allocation of funds for the hospital is a triumph for the region which will improve the services provided to the community.

“It’s going to mean that our local families and our loved ones can receive the healthcare and the treatment that they need closer to home,” Ms Hurn said.