Women in the Redlands Coast will have access to water birthing for the first time with the opening of three new birthing pools at Redland Hospital.

Member for Redlands Kim Richards and Member for Capalaba Don Brown opened the new facilities today, part of a $1.73 million investment by the Palaszczuk Government.

Ms Richards said it was an exciting time for local families who previously needed to travel out of the region to access water birthing.

“The local community told us they wanted access to water birthing, and we are thrilled to now provide local mums with this option,” Ms Richards said.

“We want to give mums-to-be more choice and now they can choose water birthing at their local hospital, close to home and close to their loved ones.”

Member for Capalaba Don Brown said the birthing unit expansion a included a new birth suite, the refurbishment of two existing birth suites to accommodate the new birthing pools, and a refurbished Maternity Assessment Unit.

“The Redlands Coast has a growing population, and the demand for healthcare services continues to increase,” Mr Brown said.

“This upgrade is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to providing more and better health services, no matter where you live. 

“The unit also received a new birthing unit reception, refurbished waiting room and a new clinical teaching room.”

Member for Springwood Mick de Brenni said the upgrade would be welcomed by local families.

“With around 1800 babies born at Redland Hospital every year, the new birth suite will increase birthing capacity and assist the staff at this hospital to continue the amazing work they do every single day to care for the Redland community,” Mr de Brenni said.

“The ED and birthing expansion project created jobs for 25 people, including three apprentices, during the construction phase.”

Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services Steven Miles said the expanded maternity services were part of a $1.73 million funding injection into Redland Hospital, which also saw four additional Emergency Department short stay beds opened in January 2020.

“The emergency department expansion recently completed has increased capacity and improved flow at Redland Hospital,” Mr Miles said.

“This expansion is just the beginning for Redland Hospital, and we continue to look ahead and plan for the future.

“The Palaszczuk Government has invested $1.5 million into a preliminary business case to identify options to further increase the capability and capacity of the hospital.

“We’re delivering healthcare infrastructure now and planning for the future healthcare needs of the Redlands Coast community.”