Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs and the Northern Territory Minister for Health Kon Vatskalis have turned the first sod in the construction of the new Indigenous health research centre in the territory.

 

The $45.7 million project includes a new building and upgrade to the MEnzies School of Health Research facility at the Royal Darwin Hospital, as well as a new building on Charles Darwin University’s Casuarina campus in Darwin.

 

The new buildings will be constructed by Lahey Constructions and will create capacity for an additional 244 staff (a total of 446 staff); and a 200-person auditorium on the RDH campus to support Menzies’ teaching and learning activities.

 

Menzies’ Acting Director, Associate Professor Ross Andrews said new infrastructure will enable the institute to continue its vital medical research in world class facilities.

 

“By mid 2013, two modern and ecologically sound buildings will be completed that are truly iconic, flexible and functional. This project will secure Menzies’ long-term, productive future, and pave the way for our researchers to continue to improve the health of Australians and those in our region.”

 

Associate Professor Andrews said Menzies is expanding rapidly in response to the increased demand for rigorous, evidence-based input that helps shape policy and services in the areas of Indigenous and tropical health.