Construction on the new $45.36 million public aged care facility in Orbost has hit a
major milestone.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt last week visited the site and announced that the structure of the new two-storey Public Sector Residential Aged Care (PSRAC) is now complete, with work progressing on the building’s façade and internal fit-out.
“This new facility will give older Victorians in Orbost the comfort, dignity and quality care they deserve – in a home that’s modern, safe and designed to meet their needs,”
Ms Stitt said.
“Ageing in place is critically important for older Victorians, especially those in regional areas like Orbost and we’re delivering the care and facilities to support them to do this.”
The state-of-the-art facility will deliver 38 modern single bedrooms with private en suite bathrooms, replacing Orbost Regional Health’s (ORH) ageing Lochiel House and Waratah Lodge facilities.
“This project is a game-changer for East Gippsland – creating jobs, supporting local businesses and ensuring older people can stay close to family, friends and the community they know and love,” Member for Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh said.
Designed to promote independence and a sense of home, the new facility will be arranged around smaller ‘households’ – each with its own kitchen, dining, lounge and sitting areas to encourage connection and community.
Residents will also have access to shared spaces including a community room, reflection room, café and hair salon offering more opportunities for social interaction and engagement with loved ones.
With dementia-friendly design at its heart, the facility will provide a safe and supportive environment that promotes dignity, comfort and independence – featuring intuitive layouts, natural light, open area views and connections to green outdoor spaces to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority and builder SJ Higgins, the project is expected to be completed in late 2026.
In a boost to the local economy, the project is also expected to create and sustain more than 200 construction industry jobs.
When complete, the new Orbost facility will ensure older Victorians in the region can continue to receive high-quality care close to family, friends and their community.
