The SDHB recorded a $22 million deficit in the last financial year, and has forecast a $17.5m deficit for the coming financial year.
The Budget upped health operational funding nationwide by $3.2 billion over the next four years.
In addition, up to $100 million in capital will be available, if required, to support necessary in 2018/19 to strengthen DHB balance sheets through deficit support.
"We are yet to learn the details of the announcements, and therefore are not yet in a position to say how it will impact services at Southern DHB,'' SDHB chief executive Chris Fleming said.
"This will become clearer in the coming weeks, and will be factored into our 2018/19 planning accordingly.''
However, the Budget directed resources to areas which were pressure, and that funding would be ``significantly appreciated'' Mr Fleming said.
"There are still significant cost pressures within the health system, and this does not solve all the challenges we face,'' he said.
"However, it's the most positive news we've had for some time from an operating perspective, and it will make a difference in critical areas.''
