THE $1.2 billion Queensland Children's Hospital moved one step closer to reality with the appointment of Abigroup Contractors as the project's managing contractor. Abigroup will manage construction of the Queensland Children's Hospital, which will combine the Royal and Mater children's hospitals into one facility at South Brisbane in 2014.

The new $1.2 billion Queensland Children's Hospital represents the largest capital investment in children's health services in this State's history. The new hospital will be large enough to bring together the staff and clinical services of both children's hospitals into one location.

Work to prepare the site of the new Queensland Children's Hospital commenced in early 2009. This year construction will focus on a four-level basement car park which will eventually provide families and patients with direct access into the hospital building.

The new Queensland Children's Hospital is just one part of the State Government's plan to expand children's health services. Children's health services at Ipswich, Logan, Caboolture, Redland and Redcliffe hospitals will be expanded.

In 2012 a new children's emergency department will also open at The Prince Charles Hospital, with 12 emergency treatment spaces, 20 beds for short stays and additional children's outpatient services.