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New hospital to be named after the late Joan Kirner

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New hospital to be named after the late Joan Kirner

The new $200 million Women's and Children's Hospital to be built in Sunshine will be named after the late Premier Joan Kirner AC.

Joan Kirner will be celebrated today at an event marking 25 years since she became the first female Premier of Victoria.

Joan Kirner was a passionate advocate over many decades for women and children.

It is only fitting that this new hospital carrying her name will specialise in maternity and paediatric services and be based in the area she lived in and campaigned for over decades – Melbourne's west.

"Joan was an absolute inspiration to all of us and we want to honour her and her legacy," Victorian Premier, The Hon Daniel Andrews said.

"The Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital will deliver vital services to families in Melbourne's west, a community Joan truly loved."

Joan Kirner was a strong ambassador for Melbourne's west, working closely with the local community for decades, particularly on issues of economic and social disadvantage.

The Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital will cater for the growing needs of Melbourne's west which is experiencing significant growth, with the number of births at Sunshine Hospital projected to exceed 7,000 per year by 2026.

The Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital will be a multi-storey facility with 20 maternity delivery rooms, 237 beds, 39 special care nursery cots, four theatres and additional clinics, and will mean more women in Melbourne's west will be able to give birth and access children's services closer to home.

"I am proud that this new hospital will be named after my friend, Joan, who fought strongly and passionately for families in Melbourne's west," Minister for Health, The Hon Jill Hennessy said.

"This hospital will specialise in maternity and paediatric services, which is a fitting tribute to a woman who fought for women and children her whole life."

Expressions of Interest are currently open to appoint a builder for the new hospital which is due to commence construction in late 2016.​