Country Hospitals

The Hon. T.T. NGO (14:42): My question is to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing regarding hospitals. Could the minister tell the house when tenders will be issued? What is the contract value and when will work begin and be completed for the following immediately and shovel-ready regional hospital stimulus projects: (1) Fire and safety upgrades at Kapunda Hospital; (2) Sterilisation facilities at Angaston hospital; and (3) Installation of generators and electrical upgrades at Peterborough hospital, Clare Hospital and Coober Pedy?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:43): I have a sense of deja vu. I thought I answered the Kapunda question yesterday, but let me refer to the advice I have received and, as I said yesterday, I am relying on advice. In relation to Kapunda, I am advised that the proposed tender release is July 2020 and the proposed completion is February 2021. In relation to Angaston, the proposed tender release is October 2020 and the proposed completion is 2021. In relation to Peterborough, I am advised that the proposed tender release is June 2020 and the completion is December 2020. I am advised that in relation to Coober Pedy the proposed tender release is June 2020 and the proposed completion is December 2020.

Whilst I am on my feet, I thank the honourable member for highlighting yet again this government's commitment to the economic stimulus response. This isn't just a health emergency; this is an economic emergency. To be frank, one feeds into the other. Economic distress and unemployment undermines the health and wellbeing of families where the breadwinner or breadwinners are not employed.

Certainly, social isolation and dislocation adds to the stress of mental health. So we had an economic stimulus package. We were the first state in Australia to have an economic stimulus package. I also highlight the fact that this government's response to the health crisis has also involved economic investment. For example, when we needed to put in place dedicated COVID-19 facilities, we identified three sites: Wakefield, College Grove and the Repat. Particularly in relation to Wakefield and College Grove, we needed to significantly invest. We invested $7 million in beds and medical equipment. In relation to the Repat site, there is $6.5 million in terms of—

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: Point of order, Mr President: given that the questions were all about regional hospitals, my point of order is relevance when talking about metropolitan facilities.

The PRESIDENT: I heard the question on the basis of hospital upgrades, and I think the minister is providing probably quite valuable information about hospital upgrades. I am sure the minister is close to finishing his answer. Minister, would you like to conclude?

The Hon. S.G. WADE: Thank you, Mr President. I will be very brief. I mention also that we have brought forward other capital works and other projects, because both capital works and operating costs stimulate the economy. Two examples are that we brought forward works in the south in relation to the SHEP project and also in relation to Modbury.