The Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital in Suva is poised to enhance its medical services and become a leading facility in the region, with a significant investment from Australia. The Australian government announced a funding of $14.7 million for the redevelopment master plan of the hospital.
Penny Wong, the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, made the announcement during her visit to Fiji for the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Affairs Meeting. She recognized the urgent need for the hospital’s renovation.
“Australia is investing $14.7 million to develop this master plan,” she stated. The funding is intended to create a comprehensive plan that ensures continuous services while transforming the hospital into a modern medical center.
JohnStaff International Development (JID), an Australian firm, will lead the consultancy for the master plan, which is expected to be completed within 12 to 14 months. Wong remarked, “The plan will cater to Fiji’s future health needs and enhance the required infrastructure for a top-tier national referral hospital.”
Australia has also pledged to conduct an urgent engineering assessment of the current hospital facilities to ensure it can continue operating during the redevelopment process. Wong expressed Australia’s commitment to working closely with Fiji to improve healthcare services and create more inclusive opportunities.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka praised the Australian government’s timely investment, highlighting the strong partnership between Australia and Fiji. “We are very grateful to the Australian government for funding the redevelopment of our hospital,” he noted.
Health and Medical Services Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed the signing of the agreement with Australia’s government regarding the redevelopment. He addressed challenges related to providing services while repairs are made, noting issues around space in the current hospital layout.
Alison McKechnie, CEO of the winning tender, stated that the redevelopment master plan would be a priority to ensure high-quality healthcare for Fijians. She acknowledged the Fijian government’s dedication to this important project, emphasizing its representation of the strong ties between Fiji and Australia.
“The CWM Hospital Master Plan will provide a blueprint for transformative change in the future of healthcare in Fiji,” she concluded.