Speaking in Bendigo this morning, Mr Davis said the delayed hospital would be delivered with the best outcome for the local community.

“I think you need to stay tuned and I think you might be pleasantly surprised that we get the very, very best outcome for Bendigo,” he said.

“I can guarantee we’re going to get a great outcome for Bendigo, I think you’re going to get the biggest hospital in country Victoria’s history, a hospital that’s $102 million more than Jacinta Allan promised.”

Mr Davis wouldn't set a date for the project to start and said he expected the final stages of the tender process to be completed soon.

“I’m very proud of the progress with the Bendigo hospital,” he said.

Construction of the hospital was due to start late last year.

Full details in tomorrow’s Bendigo Advertiser.