Construction begins on new Launceston Hospice

Construction is now underway on the new Launceston Hospice, marking a major milestone in the delivery of a dedicated, purpose-built hospice facility for Northern Tasmania.

Local contractor VOS Construction & Joinery has been appointed to deliver the project, which will transform the Allambi Building within the Launceston General Hospital precinct into a purpose-built hospice and hospice respite facility.

The project represents an important investment in specialist palliative care infrastructure and has been shaped through extensive planning, collaboration and community engagement.

Funded through a $20 million Australian Government investment, the new Launceston Hospice will provide 12 inpatient beds and offer specialist care and support for people living with life-limiting conditions, along with their families and carers.

Further information, including artist impressions of the design, is available at www.health.tas.gov.au/priority-projects.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Hospice has been designed to create a welcoming, home-like environment.

“The facility will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing a peaceful and dignified setting for patients while maintaining strong connections to the established gardens and courtyards that make the Allambi site unique,” Minister Archer said.

“The design of the new hospice has been informed by consultation with key stakeholders, including the Friends of the Northern Hospice Group. Their contributions have helped ensure the facility reflects the needs and expectations of the community it will serve.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re strengthening our health system.”

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Rebecca White:

“The Albanese Government’s $20 million investment is helping to build the infrastructure needed to support a modern, sustainable palliative care service for the region.

“Today’s milestone demonstrates what can be achieved when governments, health providers and the community work together to deliver better outcomes for Northern Tasmania.

“This project will help deliver better access to palliative care for local communities, supporting patients and families with high-quality care closer to home.

“This hospice will add important capacity to Northern Tasmania’s health system, ensuring specialist palliative care services are available in a purpose-built setting designed for contemporary models of care.

“Seeing construction commence is a clear sign that this long-planned project is moving from vision to reality, and I look forward to its completion in the years ahead.”

Quotes attributable to Jess Teesdale MP, Federal Member for Bass:

"This project is becoming a reality because the Albanese Government invested $20 million to deliver a purpose-built hospice for Northern Tasmania.

"We are investing in the health infrastructure our community needs, ensuring people can access compassionate, high-quality palliative care closer to home, when they need it most.

"This new hospice will give patients and their families access to specialist care in a dedicated, purpose-built facility, providing comfort, dignity and support during incredibly difficult times."