Local communities set to benefit from $350 million stimulus

12 Mar 2020 media release

South Australians will benefit almost immediately from the Marshall Liberal Government’s unprecedented $350 million stimulus package, which includes a $15 million investment in upgrades at our country hospitals.
The $15 million will boost local economies, trigger immediate jobs and provide better health services closer to home throughout regional South Australia.

Premier Steven Marshall said the government was delivering on its commitment to act swiftly and decisively to protect the health and wellbeing of South Australians and safeguard the state’s economy and jobs during these challenging times.
“The immediate launch of these regional projects is a win for the local economies, who are preparing for the impacts of coronavirus and recent bushfires, and also for regional communities who will receive better services, closer to home,” said Premier Steven Marshall.
“While we are not immune from the impacts of this global crisis, I am confident that this package will go some way to assist us in minimising the inevitable shocks to come.
“We are a team with a strong plan in place and our actions to date should fill the community with confidence, knowing they have a Government willing to do whatever it takes to manage these challenges.”
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said the projects were all ready to kick-off within the next few months.
“The Marshall Liberal Government has a strong plan to protect and prepare South Australia for the health and economic impacts of coronavirus.
“We have made a firm commitment to regional South Australians to provide better services, closer to home and we are delivering on that promise.”
Projects funded under the $15 million commitment include:

• $2.5 million for fire safety upgrades at health and aged care facilities at Eudunda, Loxton and Kapunda Hospitals;

• $4.5 million for sterilisation facilities at Naracoorte, Kapunda and Angaston Hospitals;

• $3 million for the installation of generators and electrical upgrades at Waikerie, Bordertown, Clare,
Peterborough and Coober Pedy Hospitals;

• $5 million for regional aged care facilities and other upgrades

The $15 million has been brought forward from the Marshall Government’s $140 million sustainment works over 10 years program.