NSW Budget 2020: Wagga Health to benefit from millions in funding

Tens of millions of dollars have been allocated to improve the Wagga health precinct. SEE THE FUNDING BREAKDOWN.

A massive $41.4 million in funding has been secured for the redevelopment of Wagga Wagga Hospital, while a further $3 million funding was allocated for the redevelopment of the hospital’s car park.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the budget was a “massive win for the people of regional NSW”, earmarking major funding commitments to health in Wagga.

WAGGA NEWS/AAP. Wagga Wagga Rural Referral Hospital / Wagga Wagga Base Hospital in Wagga Wagga NSW. (AAP IMAGE/ Michael Frogley)

“health spending accounted for almost one-third of the NSW Budget, which demonstrated the NSW Government’s commitment to world-class health services for communities across the state,” Health Minister Brad Hazzard said.

“The NSW Government’s investment would not only be delivering health care to the bush but also create and support tens of thousands of jobs across the state, stimulating local economies and attracting medical staff to regional areas.

“This is a capital investment budget for the health of the bush.”

Wagga will also see a major upgrades to government offices as part of a $10 million project funded in the NSW 2020-21 Budget, while more than $42 million will be spent in local schools.

WAGGA NEWS/AAP. Wagga Wagga Base Hospital in Wagga Wagga NSW. (AAP IMAGE/ Michael Frogley)

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet revealed a $32.7 million funding boost for a new primary school at Estella, Wagga Wagga, as well as a $10 million injection into the upgrade of the Murrumbidgee Regional mega school.

“Schools have seen a year like no other, and this budget will support students from their very first years to their last,” he said.

“We recognise the importance of schools in the wider community, which is why we are investing $240 million over two years into regional and metropolitan school building programs.

“The programs will help schools across NSW fund projects like canteens, administration buildings and outdoor learning areas. These projects will be completed by local business, with local employees, supporting local jobs, delivering a win for the school and the wider community.”

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said crucial funding for education in regional areas had been secured, while Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said our youngest learners to those in their final years of high school would benefit from new infrastructure and school upgrades.

We are investing in our students who will be our future mechanics, doctors and small business owners. We’re laying the foundations and boosting the facilities that our kids need to have the best success in life,” Ms Mitchell said.

“NSW’s students, teachers and parents have faced the state’s triple crises of drought, bushfires and now COVID-19 head on, adapting to how education is delivered across the state.