General News
1 November, 2025
RNH opens new staff duplexes
The Rural Northwest Health duplexes project was officially opened in Hopetoun on Friday, October 17, providing additional on-campus housing for staff.
The project began in March 2022 when RNH applied for the Regional Health Worker Accommodation Fund grant to help address staff housing shortages in Hopetoun.
After securing $2 million in funding in late 2024, planning and construction moved quickly.
The first duplex unit arrived on June 5, 2025, followed by the rest on June 13.
Concrete works and carport construction began in August, and by September 12, the keys were officially handed over to RNH.
Final concreting was completed a week later, paving the way for the grand opening in mid-October.
RNH chief executive Jenni Master said she felt very proud of the project's success and its positive impact on staff and the local community.
"I feel very proud as an organisation that we’ve got this far, this quickly, and that we’ve done it under time, well within budget and they look amazing,” she said.
“It’s about trying to provide people a sense of home.
“When staff move here with their families, they’re more likely to see this as their home and stay long-term.
“That’s what ensures great, consistent care for our community.”
Ms Master also thanked residents for their patience during the period when Hopetoun’s urgent care service was diverted.
“People have been extremely worried about the future of health services here,” she said.
“I hope they see this as a sign of permanency with RNH.”
RNH Project Support Officer Bernie O’Connor praised the efficiency of the builder and said the project had delivered high-quality housing at excellent value.
“Every dealing I’ve had with Swanbuild, they do the best job, on time, at the price they quote,” he said.
“We were saving so much money with this idea that we decided to furnish every unit so that new staff can move in without bringing anything.
Beds, appliances and everything, it’s all here.”
He said the duplexes, which include both single and family units, were designed to accommodate up to a dozen staff, reducing the need for temporary rentals.
“It’s extremely important, as RNH had already utilised every bit of accommodation in Hopetoun,” he said.
“Now we can advertise knowing this is first-class housing and it’ll help attract great staff, even from Melbourne.”
Member for Mildura Jade Benham attended the opening and commended RNH for its initiative.
“I’m so proud and not just for Hopetoun but for the Beulah and wider community as well,” she said.
“You could see everyone just filled with pride.
“When you’ve got department heads who understand the regions and let the community do what they do best, you get results like this.”
Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said that they’ve invested in modern solutions to ease accommodation and worker shortages across regional Victoria.
“Hopetoun residents can now get the care they need, close to home – this is a big win for locals and a terrific result made possible by our Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.”