NSW Government investment in Shellharbour Hospital has more than doubled, ensuring a world-class facility on a new site, boosting local jobs and the economy.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the $320 million funding boost is part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan to fast-track infrastructure and create jobs across the state.
“The NSW Government has increased its contribution from $250 million to $570 million to deliver the Illawarra a state-of-the-art hospital on a new site,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“This investment is about creating thousands of new jobs and ensuring the South Coast has a world-class hospital with the capacity to care for the health needs of the community now and into the future.”
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said a total of $700 million will be funnelled into the project from the State and Federal Government.
“Not only will this bigger facility attract world-class clinicians and hospital staff to the region but it will deliver up to 2,800 jobs during construction to boost the local economy,” Mr Perrottet said.
“And by building a brand new hospital on a greenfield site, it provides greater opportunity to design a campus which can accommodate future demand and growth.”
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the new Shellharbour Hospital will relieve pressure on the existing hospital network and offer locals first-class facilities on their doorstep.
“We know in the next decade one in four people in the Illawarra will be aged 65 or older and need better access to care, in addition to its millions of visitors,” Mr Hazzard said.
“Work is already underway to identify a site where health services for all demographics could be collocated in one place and building can commence as soon as possible.”
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said this investment would change lives in the region.
“When I make a promise to our community, I always get it done. I’ve been fighting hard for southern Illawarra residents to ensure we have a hospital that will serve our region for many years to come,” Mr Ward said.
“As a local MP, I’ve worked hard to deliver infrastructure that changes lives and saves lives – this announcement takes the cake.”
Minister for Local Government and Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock said scores of senior Illawarra doctors had petitioned her and fellow MPs for this outcome.
“This investment is a terrific outcome for patients and health professionals because it will concentrate vital services in one spot and bring forward works,” Mrs Hancock said.
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