General News
3 July, 2026
More nurses for Ararat under hospital reclassification
ARARAT Hospital is to be reclassified by the Victorian Government resulting in more nurses and better patient care.
New legislation to be introduced in the Victorian Parliament aims to deliver more nurses in more hospitals by strengthening nurse-to-patient ratios.
Nurse and midwife to patient ratios set minimum staffing levels to ensure patients always have the care they need.
The legislation will add an additional 253 full time equivalent nursing positions to a number of hospitals across Victoria.
The legislation, backed by a $109 million funding commitment, will reclassify 26 hospitals, including Ararat Hospital.
The change will transition Ararat Hospital from a Leven 4 to Level 3 hospital.
It will enshrine in law an increase in required staffing levels — reflecting the increasing demand.
The Government says the additional roles will also create more opportunities for graduate and early career nurses.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the reclassification will lead to even better care for patients at Ararat Hospital.
"This is the biggest increase in nurse-to-patient ratios since they were first introduced. It will mean more nurses at Ararat Hospital to care for our community,” Ms Haylett said.
“By supporting our nurses, we are also making sure Victorians get the best care when and where they need it.”
East Grampians Health Service Director of Clinical Services Bec Peters said the change will give Ararat Hospital more resources to care for patients.
“The increased classification reflects the volume and complexity of care we deliver and recognises the high level of activity within our hospital.
“It also results in an increase to the nurse-to-patient ratios under the Safe Patient Care Act, meaning additional nursing staff to further strengthen safe, high-quality patient care,” Ms Peters said.
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