$65m Redevelopment at SJOG Hospital Richmond
Sir Peter Cosgrove and Minister for Transport and Veterans David Elliott turned the first sod for the $65 million redevelopment at St John of God Richmond – SJOG Hospital last Thursday (August 4th) ahead of the facility’s Veterans’ Day commemoration.
The new redevelopment will include 112 private rooms and a wellness centre with a gym and indoor pool. The historic 130-year-old Blemont House will remain a prominent feature of the new design. Care and treatment will continue throughout the redevelopment phase. Works are expected to be completed in late 2023.
The expanded SJOG hospital campus will integrate a planned National Centre for Psychological Trauma and Translational Research, which will act as a vehicle for change in addressing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions.
St John of God Richmond Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Colman O’Driscoll, said it was most appropriate the sod turning coincided with the hospital’s Veterans’ Day occasion.
“We are working towards transforming mental health care, which affects 20% of former or serving members of the defence force, and 15% of first responders.
“On admission, 70% of military veterans and 85% of first responders are diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),” he said.
“The new campus will provide a place of sanctuary and healing where veterans, first responders and other clients can reconnect with their families, friends and communities so they can realise their full potential and live their best life. It will be a platform from which we can transform the entire experience of mental health care for everyone who comes here.”
Chair of Trauma and Mental Health, Professor Zachary Steel, said the trauma and mental health impacts of working as a first responder can affect a person for many years.
“Some people don’t seek help for years afterwards – but whatever stage they are at, it is crucial that our first responders and veterans can access the mental health expertise they need,” he said.
The redevelopment is the first step of a major project with a vision to build a mental health system, translational research and satellite sites in a number of jurisdictions, orientated around the needs of those who need care. It is supported by a comprehensive campaign to raise funds from government and philanthropic sources to improve the treatment journey and lives of veterans and first responders. Sir Peter Cosgrove is the Patron of the campaign.
Minister for Transport and Veterans Affairs David Elliott said: “The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has shown Australia has work to do on the repatriation of those who served our nation.
“A nation has no higher moral obligation than to look after its veterans. Our diggers deserve the greatest respect and the best possible care for both their physical and mental wellbeing.”
James McMahon, former SAS commander and St John of God Health Care Board member, and Wiggles member Anthony Field, who is also a veteran, were also at the sod turning ceremony.
