A re-elected Turnbull Government will deliver $32.5 million in capital funding to provide a globally connected and locally focussed world class Central Coast medical school precinct on the Central Coast of New South Wales.
Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham joined Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks MP and Member for Dobell Karen McNamara MP to announce the Commonwealth commitment to the University of Newcastle’s new Central Coast Medical School and Health Hub and Medical Research Institute which will deliver 765 jobs and more than $200 million in direct economic benefit.
Minister Birmingham said the Central Coast Medical School would operate as a branch facility of the University of Newcastle and would eventually transfer 150 medical student places per year to Gosford to study side-by-side with nursing and allied health students. To support medical training in regional areas, the Commonwealth has agreed with the University’s request to transfer 30 of their funded medical places a year to the new site.
“This world-class medical school and research institute will transform the local community and regional economy and provide never-before-seen career pathways for local students, clinicians, researchers and health professionals,” Minister Birmingham said.
“This facility will create almost 800 jobs and will assist the Central Coast to transition into a 21st century economy, built on research, innovation, health and education.
“The Turnbull Government is committed to projects that drive economic growth, improve local education opportunities and provide opportunities for local communities to innovate and diversify.”
Minister for Health Sussan Ley said the Central Coast Health and Medical Research Institute would help tackle emerging health challenges on the Central Coast.
“This health and education precinct will ensure that the people of the Central Coast receive access to world-class health care and importantly that local medical, nursing and allied health students have the opportunity to study and train in their local community,” Minister Ley said.
“The 150 medical student training places – including 30 graduating – per year at this health precinct will not only provide opportunities for local students but also attract health professionals from around the country and internationally.
“This important announcement is part of the Turnbull Government’s commitment to providing a 21st century health system not only in the major metropolitan cities but in regional areas where we know there are additional health challenges.”
Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks MP said the significant Turnbull Government commitment would provide both a health and economic boost for the people of Gosford and surrounding areas.
“Today’s significant investment in the Central Coast helps to fulfil a long-held dream for a world-class medical research institute and university presence in the heart of our city, that has the potential to place Gosford on the same stage as world-class tertiary institutions overseas,” Ms Wicks said.
“Unlocked by our positive Growth Plan for the Central Coast, a major commitment from the NSW Government and the vision of the University of Newcastle and our community, the project will see game-breaking medical research taking place right here on the Coast.
“I’ve been fighting to secure this funding ever since I became the Member for Robertson, because it’s about opportunity, innovation, health and education, all the while building on a strong foundation of local jobs and a stronger economy.
“Together with our delivery of 600 new Federal jobs into a Commonwealth Agency Centre of Excellence in Gosford, the Turnbull Government is backing the Central Coast in a way this region deserves.”
Member for Dobell Karen McNamara said the benefits would extend right across the Central Coast.
“Health has been, and always will be, an important priority for me as the Federal Member for Dobell. With an intertwined health system on the Central Coast this new facility will only enhance the opportunities available for those on the Central Coast. Ensuring access to quality health care is paramount for a healthy and vibrant community,” Ms McNamara said.
NSW Minister for Health, the Hon Jillian Skinner MP
“This is fantastic news that will benefit the Central Coast, at our hospitals and to give our local young students the opportunity to become doctors.
“The project will enhance the modern facility at Gosford Hospital, is a true example of everyone working together and I congratulate Lucy Wicks for taking the lead.”
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen
“This is a landmark occasion, for the University as a global leader in health and medical research, to partner to deliver a world-class medical school for the Central Coast.
“This will drive innovation in health care and education on the Central Coast, and place the region as a lead destination for health and medical researchers and general practice in a first-rate hospital facility.”
Chief Executive, Central Coast Local Health District, Matthew Hanrahan
“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Central Coast, having a world-class research and education facility as part of the redeveloped Gosford Hospital. It will enhance the health and wellbeing of the people of the Central Coast.”
Chair, Central Coast Local Health District, Paul Tonkin
“This is a fantastic day for Health and Education on the Central Coast . I congratulate and thank the University, our State Government, the Federal Government and local Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks, who've been planning and working towards this project for more than two years.”