The Rockliff Minority Government must urgently provide clarity and reassurance to the hundreds of Tasmanian healthcare workers and patients affected by the uncertainty surrounding Hobart Private Hospital.

It is deeply distressing to see media reports that Healthscope is expected to go into voluntary receivership, placing the future of Hobart Private Hospital and hundreds of jobs in jeopardy.

We shared the Health and Community Services Union and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation’s concerns when the decision was made to close Hobart Private’s maternity ward earlier this year. At the time, we warned that this could be the first step towards the closure of the hospital altogether.

The consequences of these cuts are being felt across our health system, especially by women, children, and families who are being left with fewer options.

Tasmania’s health system is already under immense pressure, and the closure of more key services is only going to make things worse. If Hobart Private was forced to close its doors, there is no way the public system could absorb that demand.

Premier Rockliff and Minister Petrusma must urgently explain what they are doing to keep vital health services running and support those who rely on them.

What conversations are they having with Healthscope to secure the long-term future of services at the hospital?

It’s also extremely disappointing that dedicated workers had to find out about the potential collapse of their workplace through the media. These are people who work tirelessly for our community, and they deserve better than to be kept in the dark about their futures.

The Government has a responsibility to step in, provide answers and ensure these workers are supported through this time of deep uncertainty.

Ella Haddad MP
Shadow Minister for Health