The Commonwealth Government will provide funding of up to $99 million to the Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS) to help the service relocate and upgrade their blood processing and testing headquarters in Sydney.
Commonwealth, state and territory governments have been advised by the ARCBS that it needs to move from the Clarence St site to ensure that essential blood processing and testing activities continue to be undertaken in a safe and cost-effective manner.
This important upgrade of facilities will ensure the continuation of the efficient and effective delivery of Australia’s blood supply.
The ARCBS estimate costs to government at about $157 million. The Commonwealth Government will commit now to providing its share under the National Blood Agreement arrangements of up to $99 million.
I expect the state and territory governments to make similar commitments as soon as possible.
health.au