KDHS board chair Chris Motton, board director Merrin Prictor, senior medical officer Dr Vuthy Keng and chief executive Anne McEvoy opening the new accommodation.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
Housing could be the solution to the regional healthcare crisis — at least that’s what the Kyabram District Health Service is hoping.
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Forget the two-hour trip down the Hume Hwy, medical staff visiting KDHS will now have quality accommodation to call home for short-term visits as part of the hospital's broader strategy to attract healthcare professionals.
A one-bedroom unit was unveiled with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony following the KDHS annual general meeting on Thursday, November 27, with community members and hospital employees getting their first glimpse of the new accommodation that visiting health professionals will soon call home.
KDHS chief executive Anne McEvoy said it was a significant milestone in strengthening workforce capability.
“Providing appropriate, reliable housing for visiting and short-term staff and visiting medical officers directly supports our capacity to maintain essential health services for the Kyabram and district community,” she said.
“This investment enhances our long-term operational resilience and ensures KDHS remains well positioned to attract and retain the skilled professionals our region depends on.”
KDHS senior medical officer Dr Vuthy Keng cut the ribbon with board chair Chris Motton.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
The project was part of the Victorian Government's $150 million Regional Workers Accommodation Fund, announced in 2024, with KDHS receiving funding to build two one-bedroom units.
The project aims to attract skilled workers to Kyabram, supporting worker retention and the local economy.
The apartments will provide short-term accommodation to encourage workers to relocate to Kyabram and potentially purchase properties, benefiting the community economically.
The new unit comes fully furnished with a modern, sleek design.
A sneak peek into what life will look like for doctors travelling to Kyabram.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
A sneak peek into what life will look like for doctors travelling to Kyabram.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
KDHS capital project manager David Atley said the additional accommodation will free up the two three-bedroom units the health service already has, aiming to provide private space for individual workers.
Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes said the government was invested in accommodation to “support the long-standing work of the Kyabram District Health Service”.
“From Kyabram to Colac and right across our wonderful state, the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund is supporting job security, economic growth and improved access to services across rural and regional Victoria,” she said.
Sheridan Aged Care resident Raelene Dunn taking part in the accommodation's smoking ceremony.
Photo by
Jemma Jones
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