The Wimmera Health Care Group, West Wimmera Health and Rural Northwest Health will share in over $90 million of funding from the State Government as part of nearly $150 million allocated to Wimmera health networks this financial year.

Minister for Health Jill Hennessy recently announced the 2017/18 bottom-line budget allocations for Victorian hospitals, which totals a record $18,12 billion.

The Member for Western Victoria, Jaala Pulford, said the funding allocation means that a record $148.85 million would be contributed by the State Government to the Wimmera's seven health networks.

The funding for the 2017/18 year includes:

  • $60.458 million to Wimmera Health Care Group, up by $3.322 million or 5.8 per cent, on the previous year.
  • $20.431 million for West Wimmera Health Service, up $537,000 or 2.7 per cent on the previous year.
  • $11.053 million for Rural Northwest Health, up $518,000 or 4.9 per cent on the previous year.
  • $20.744 million to East Grampians Health Service, up $1.247 million or 6.4 per cent on the previous year.
  • $15.207 million for East Wimmera Health Service, up $439,000 or 3 per cent on the previous year.
  • $16.756 million for Stawell Regional Health, up $917,000 or 5.8 per cent on the previous year.
  • $4.201 million for Edenhope and District Memorial Hospital, up $76,000 or 1.8 per cent on the previous year.

    The funding boost comes on the back of an extra $1.67 billion in this year's State Budget for Victorian hospitals over four years.

    "We know our dedicated doctors and nurses do a remarkable job at health services across the Wimmera. This record boost gives them the support the need to keep saving lives and keep people healthy," Ms Pulford said.

    The budget breakdown shows how the Labor Government's record investment in the health system is split among hospitals, ambulance services, mental health and drug services, aged care, community health and public health services.

    Victorian hospitals will receive $10.6 billion, which is $665.84 million- or 6.7 per cent more - than was provided in the previous financial year.

    "The Government's increased funding will support hospitals to meet demand so patients can access the care they need and deserve, more quickly, no matter where they live." Ms Pulford said.

    "Across Victoria, the funding will enable hospitals to admit 1.9 million patients, treat 1.8 million patients in emergency and carry out more than 200,000 elective surgeries to reduce waiting lists even further," she said.

    Minister for Health Jill Hennessy said the record boost means better hospitals and efficient care that is first class and accessible, no matter where people live.

    "We are opening more beds, more theatres and reducing waits for surgery and emergency care which is all about putting patients first," Ms Hennessy said.