It comes after the state government announced plans to spend $18.12 billion in the next year so more Victorian patients could access higher quality care and treatment.

The record cash injection also comes on the back of an extra $1.67 billion in this year’s State Budget for Victorian hospitals over four years.

Stawell Regional Health chief executive Liz McCourt said they were “delighted” to receive the ongoing support of the state government. 

“The funding increase of 5.8 per cent will enable us to perform in excess of 100 additional surgical procedures this year,” she said.

“There is also more funding for people who require the Home Enteral Nutrition programme and further funding for capital equipment.”

Western Victoria MP Jaala Pulford said the money gave Stawell Regional Health the support they needed to continue saving lives and keeping residents healthy. 

“We know our dedicated doctors and nurses do a remarkable job at Stawell Regional Health,” she 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, 6.7 per cent more than what was provided in the previous financial year.

The allocation to Stawell Regional Health is up by 13.5 per cent since 2014. 

“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.”

Minister for Health Jill Hennessy said the funding announcement meant first class hospitals and efficient care would be accessible to patients no matter where they lived. 

“We are opening more beds and more theatres,” she said. 

“We are also reducing waits for surgery and emergency care which is all about putting patients first.”