Additional support for Vanuatu earthquake recovery

Following the recent earthquake in Vanuatu, the Australian Government will provide further assistance to support the restoration of essential services and infrastructure.

The $10 million package will focus on the education, health and transport sectors, addressing critical Vanuatu Government priorities. It will be delivered through local systems and partners to ensure local ownership and long-term sustainability.

Australia’s assistance will also help strengthen Vanuatu’s resilience against future disasters and support vulnerable groups including women, children and people with disability.

It builds on Australia’s initial $7 million package of practical humanitarian assistance for Vanuatu’s initial earthquake response, which included emergency supplies, funding to humanitarian partners, and the deployment of Australia Assists personnel, Australian Medical Assistance Teams and a Disaster Assistance Response Team.

The 7.3-magnitude earthquake, which took place on 17 December 2024, claimed 14 lives and impacted an estimated 80,000 people.

We stand in solidarity with the Government of Vanuatu and the ni-Vanuatu people during this difficult time.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong:

“Australia and Vanuatu share a deep and enduring partnership. We are family and we will always be there for Vanuatu in times of need.

“This recovery package will help accelerate the tireless efforts of the ni-Vanuatu people to rebuild and recover from the tragic impacts of the earthquake.”

Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy:

“The Vanuatu people have shown extraordinary resolve and resilience in the face of persistent disasters. Australia will continue to show resolve in our support for Vanuatu.

“Australia is committed to supporting the resilience and prosperity of all ni-Vanuatu. Our humanitarian and recovery assistance will help ensure Vanuatu rebounds strongly.”

New data reveals that without rent controls it could take more than 65 years for renters to save for a house deposit

The Greens have renewed calls for a cap and freeze on rents as new independent analysis reveals that unlimited rent increases over recent years have eroded renters ability to save for a house deposit.

The independent analysis conducted by the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) looks at housing deposit affordability for an average renter, consistent with methodology used by the Reserve Bank of Australia, and finds that a cap and freeze on rents would drastically reduce the time it takes a renter to save for a deposit.

The PBO analysis outlines that if rents continue to climb at the rate they have in 2022-2023, it will take the average renter 65.6 years to save for a house deposit by 2030.

The PBO canvased different rent control policies and found that that time would drop drastically if a rent cap and freeze were introduced.

Rents have skyrocketed in the last two years, and while the increases have slowed in the last quarter, the annual increase is still more than twice what it was before the pandemic.

Even if rent increases slowed to their 10 year average, the analysis finds that renters who can only afford to save 10% of their income would still find themselves saving for 15 years.

Rental affordability is at a 20 year low, and renters need the government to step in now. Sixteen countries across Europe have some form of rent control, while the ACT has enjoyed it since 2019.

The Greens will centre rent reform as part of their policy platform in the lead up to the Prahran by-election as rents have skyrocketed in Prahran and 55% of the population are renters.

Victorian Greens spokesperson for Renters’ Rights, Gabrielle de Vietri:

“It’s almost impossible to save if you’re renting right now – you’re probably struggling to pay for groceries let alone a house deposit. This study makes the assumption that renters can currently save, but without rent controls, the possibility of that ever materialising into a home of their own becomes a distant dream.”

“We only need to look back over recent years to know that as long as landlords are able to jack up the rent as much as they like – they will.”

“Right now, renters know that it’s basically impossible to save for a house deposit and this is proof that with a rent cap and freeze, we can change that.”

Greens’ candidate for Prahran, Angelica Di Camillo:

“Renters make up 55% of our electorate and people in Prahran know just how hard it’s become to be a renter here as prices have skyrocketed.”

“We’re in the middle of a cost of living crisis where renters are being hit hardest with every rent increase pushing people further and further into financial stress.”

“It’s clear that we need to cap and freeze rents so that people have a chance at finding any kind of stability or even actually owning their own home.”

Sydney’s newest Australian-made ferry sails into the harbour, celebrating pioneering scientist

The latest Australian-made Parramatta River Class ferry has arrived in Sydney after a fast-tracked sailing up the coast from Hobart to Sydney Harbour.

The vessel is the fourth of seven new Northern Beaches-designed Parramatta River Class ferries being built by ship builder Richardson Devine Marine.

The vessel’s namesake is University of New South Wales global solar technology pioneer, Professor Martin Green.

The Martin Green covered her 630 nautical mile journey in just three days, stopping at Flinders Island, then briefly in Eden for fuel before sailing through the night to Sydney, with a crew of four expert mariners.

She passed through Sydney Heads at 3am on Tuesday morning and is now being thoroughly cleaned before the first passengers hop on board in the next few weeks.

Martin Green will predominantly run in the calm river conditions of the F3 route, between Parramatta and Circular Quay.

The Parramatta River Class ferries will be a significant improvement on the River Class ferries procured by the former government that did not fit under some bridges with passengers on the top deck, contained asbestos, were a potential fire risk and had wheelhouse windows that made night operations dangerous.

The seven new vessels are gradually replacing the RiverCat and SuperCat vessels which are retiring after 30 years of service.

Each vessel in the new Parramatta River Class fleet has a 200-person capacity, while using 40 per cent less diesel and are also future proofed for conversion to electric propulsion when the technology and network infrastructure become available.

They are more reliable and include more comfortable seating, upgraded safety systems and provide greater accessibility.

A team of 60 people are working to build the remaining three vessels which are expected to enter passenger service by the end of the year.

The next ferry in the new Parramatta River Class fleet is due for delivery by April 2025.

Premier Chris Minns:

“Passengers in areas like Parramatta, Meadowbank and Drummoyne will soon have access to another brand-new ferry for their commute.

“These are state-of-the-art vessels, designed in Sydney and made in Australia.

“We have now taken delivery of most of the new fleet, giving commuters along the Parramatta River the reliable and comfortable services they deserve.”

Transport Minister Jo Haylen:

“It’s exciting to see the fourth ferry in our new Parramatta River Class fleet enter the Sydney heads and prepare to serve passengers in the coming weeks.

“This state-of-the-art fleet was designed in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and built in Hobart.

“It is fitting that this vessel is named after solar pioneer Martin Green. This ferry has arrived ready to be converted to electric operation in the coming years, so one day, The Martin Green could be charged at a wharf using the very solar cell technology that Professor Martin Green played such a key role in developing.”

Professor Martin Green:

“I never imagined I would one day have a ferry named after me—what an incredible honour!

“I take great pride in knowing that this ferry is designed and built in Australia. It’s fulfilling to see such a magnificent and more sustainable vessel serving as transportation for thousands of people in our beautiful city every day.

“The Sydney to Parramatta route is one of my favourite ferry journeys, and I am thrilled to see a vessel bearing my name traverse this route daily.”

About Professor Martin Green

Professor Martin Green is Scientia Professor at UNSW Sydney and Director of the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics.

Professor Green pioneered solar technology development in Australia and is often described as “the father of modern photovoltaics”.

Over a 50-year career at UNSW Sydney he has led the development of the Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) – the world’s most commercially viable and efficient silicon solar cell technology. Today, his PERC technology is used in the production of more than 90% of the world’s solar energy.

There would be no modern solar industry as we know it today without Prof. Green’s work developing the PERC. Prof. Green and his UNSW colleagues are credited with making solar power a prime weapon in the battle to control climate change.

Fifty years on from when he started, Prof. Green is still at the forefront of clean energy technology, continuing to work on new ways to drastically improve the efficiency of solar cells.

Green dots guiding truckies to more safe rest areas

The Minns Labor Government is boosting support for truckies travelling on regional roads as part of an $11.9 million investment to improve rest areas.

To increase the number of identifiable safe rest stop options for heavy vehicle drivers and improve road safety in the state’s south, Transport for NSW has marked 14 new green reflector sites.

These sites serve as an informal heavy vehicle rest area and are marked by green dot style reflectors placed on guideposts.

The green reflectors mounted on roadside guide posts are a simple tool to help heavy vehicles drivers easily identify appropriate informal heavy vehicle rest stop opportunities, particularly at night or when visibility is poor.

Work is complete on the delivery of new green reflector sites along the following important freight routes:

  • Burley Griffin Way: 4, 8 and 10 kilometres north of Binalong.
  • Lachlan Valley Way: 17 kilometres north of Yass.
  • Snowy Mountains Highway: 3 kilometres south of Bemboka.
  • Princes Highway: 5 kilometres south of Cobargo.
  • Olympic Highway: 8 kilometres south of Cootamundra and 5 kilometres north of Bethungra.
  • Mid-Western Highway: 4 kilometres west of Weethalle.
  • Newell Highway: 2 kilometres north of Narrandera and 18 kilometres south of Ardlethan
  • Hume Highway: 4 kilometres south of Bowning/7 kilometres north of Yass and 10 kilometres north of Little Billabong.
  • Monaro Highway: 13 kilometres north of Cooma.

Delivery of the new green reflector sites has come through the $11.9 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Stop Minor Works Program which is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety.

In addition to this investment, the NSW Government will also continue to roll out around $1 billion in lifesaving road infrastructure upgrades through its Towards Zero Safer Roads Program and the joint federal/ state funded Road Safety Program.

The NSW Government also introduced a number of measures in 2024 which will continue or expand in 2025. They include:

  • The trial of average speed cameras for light vehicles in 2025
  • Doubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with an additional 2,700 new sites where a camera can be deployed. Total enforcement hours will remain the same
  • Seatbelt enforcement via the state’s existing mobile phone cameras
  • The demerit point return trial that encourages safe driving
  • Releasing more ratings for bicycle helmets as part of its star rating system
  • Removing a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six months
  • Implementing recommendations from the Demerit Point Integrity Taskforce to stamp out rorting of the system by mainly visiting foreign nationals
  • Signing the National Road Safety Data Agreement with the Commonwealth

Transport is also exploring opportunities to establish additional new green reflector sites and industry feedback is guiding this work. 

Find out more information about green reflector sites and more details about heavy vehicle rest area improvements.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“Heavy vehicle drivers have told us how important green reflectors are in helping to easily identify a safe place to park, rest and check their loads.

“The Minns Labor Government is listening and acting in response to the feedback we’ve received.

“Green reflector sites are an important part of providing heavy vehicle rest stopping opportunities along NSW’s State Road network. 

“Marking these sites with green reflectors is a practical measure that supports the wellbeing of our truck drivers who play a crucial role in keeping our supply chains moving.

“The 14 new green reflector sites will go a long way in enabling truck drivers to stop and rest on what can be very long journeys, particularly at night.”

Road safety advocate and Past National Road Freighters Association President Rod Hannifey said:

“The rollout of more green reflect sites is a big win for heavy vehicle drivers.

“Green reflector sites have made a real difference out on the road. Another driver told me it had saved their life. It’s such a simple idea, but it’s already saving lives.

“There just aren’t enough rest stops for truck drivers across Australia, so this initiative in NSW is a huge help. It gives drivers a clear signal of where they can safely pull up and take a break.

“This project is definitely welcomed by the industry, and we’re looking forward to seeing more of these sites rolled out over time.”

Applications to open for 2025 Tertiary Health Study Subsidies

The Minns Labor Government is encouraging students enrolled in healthcare degrees in NSW to apply for up to $12,000 in financial support to assist with their studies.

Minister for Health Ryan Park today announced the next round of applications for the Tertiary Health Study Subsidies Program will open on 14 January 2025.

This year support will be available for up to 850 nursing students, 400 medical students and 150 midwifery students.

The Program is designed to create a future pipeline of health workers by supporting students with fees, technology, travel, or other costs related to their degree.

Subsidies are also available for students of paramedicine, Aboriginal health, dentistry and oral health therapy, and various allied health professions including psychology, pharmacy, dietetics, and nuclear medicine.

Students successful in their application and beginning their degrees will receive subsidies of $4,000 per year over three years. Existing students will receive one-off payments of $8,000 after acceptance of employment for a position within NSW Health.

Students must be willing to make a five-year commitment to working in the NSW public health system. There are a limited number of subsidies available, and applications will remain open until all subsidies are awarded.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $121.9 million over five years in the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy Program.

The full list of eligible workforce groups and locations are available on the NSW Health website.

The subsidies form part of a series of measures introduced by the Minns Labor Government to further strengthen the state’s health workforce, including:

  • Implementing the Safe Staffing Levels initiative in our emergency departments
  • Providing permanent funding for 1,112 FTE nurses and midwives on an ongoing basis
  • Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in more than a decade for nurses and other health workers
  • Beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities.

the Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“More than 3,900 students across NSW have already benefitted from the NSW Government’s $120 million investment in tertiary health study subsidies.

“I am so pleased more students across NSW will continue to benefit from this important initiative, which is helping to ease the financial burden on those starting a career in health.

“Up to 4,000 subsidies are on offer this year for health degrees including nursing, midwifery, medicine, paramedicine, allied health and health science.

“This Program is one of many initiatives the Minns Labor Government is rolling out to boost capacity across the public health system and provide relief to our hardworking frontline healthcare staff.”

Medical Student and Tertiary Health Study Subsidies recipient Aimee Long:

“I already had a taste of healthcare while working as a pharmacist. Medicine felt like the next logical step for me.

“I grew up in country Victoria, so I saw the role the doctors and GP’s play there and how important it is to that community. So, I decided that is something that I wanted to do and give back to small and rural communities like that.

“Receiving the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy allowed me to become part of Australia’s largest health system. Being in medicine is quite an expensive undertaking so it helps me to afford lots of things such as resources, whether or not they’re specific to the uni or external.”

Cessnock Hospital redevelopment moves ahead with plans on public exhibition

The community is being invited to view and provide feedback on the Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment planning documents, with the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) on public exhibition from Monday 20 January 2025.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $138 million in the Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment, to deliver a new two-storey acute services building at the hospital campus, enhancing health services for the region.

The REF and hospital designs have been informed by extensive consultation with staff, stakeholders and the community, including recent community information sessions on the schematic design of the new acute services building held in October last year.

Key features of the redevelopment include an expanded emergency department, two inpatient wards with single and two-bed rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, a new medical imaging service and day surgery spaces.

In the 2024-25 NSW Budget, the Minns Labor Government allocated an additional $26.5 million to the original $111.5 million project, to support the delivery of additional new facilities including an operating theatre, procedure room, Central Sterilising Services Department, and a modern pharmacy department.

The contemporary health facilities will support best-practice models of care and improve campus accessibility for patients and staff by better integrating healthcare services.

Main works construction is expected to start in mid-2025, following the planning approval and the appointment of a building contractor.

The Review of Environmental Factors and supporting technical documents will be available from 9.00am Monday 20 January 2025 on the Health Infrastructure website. 

Feedback can be provided until midnight on Monday, 17 February 2025.

Hunter New England Local Health District will continue to work closely with community stakeholders and staff to ensure the redevelopment meets the future health needs of the growing Cessnock community.

For further information, visit the project website.

Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:

“The investment in the Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment project will enable delivery of modern hospital and healthcare facilities to support the current and future health needs of communities in Cessnock and the Lower Hunter region.

“This is a significant milestone for the redevelopment project and we’re grateful for the input provided by staff and community into the planning process for the project.”

Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr:

“I’m delighted to see planning for the Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment reach this significant milestone, which will boost health services for patients, families and their carers across the lower Hunter region.

“We encourage the community to provide their feedback on the plans while they are on public exhibition.”

Executive Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Sustainability, Hunter New England Local Health District, Dr Ramsey Awad:

“This important step in the $138 million redevelopment will mean we are one step closer to delivering a state-of-the-art hospital for the Cessnock community.”

Sod turn marks the start of construction of Alkimos Aquatic Centre

Construction is now underway on the highly anticipated Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Perth’s north, delivering key infrastructure for local communities to enjoy now and into the future.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined Federal Member for Pearce Tracey Roberts and Mayor of Wanneroo Linda Aitken to officially turn the sod to mark the start of works today.

Alkimos has been identified as a key area of development in the Northern Coastal Growth Corridor of the City of Wanneroo, with the expected growth identifying the need for significant community infrastructure that will meet current and future demand.

Building Australia’s Future is about so much more than bricks and mortar. It is about creating a better life for Australians. Projects like this create communities.

The project involves the construction of a regional level aquatic and multi-purpose facility, and will include:

  • three indoor pools, including a learn to swim and free form leisure pool
  • health suite including spa, sauna and steam room
  • outdoor 50 metre competition pool
  • multi-use indoor sports courts with spectator seating
  • gymnasium and fitness suite
  • cafeteria
  • occasional childcare space
  • community facilities, including meeting and consulting rooms.

The facility will provide a key space for the community to meet, socialise and participate in recreation activities including volunteering, building a foundation for social cohesion.

It is expected that the project will support 250 jobs during construction and will create another 42 ongoing jobs once complete.

The nearly $88 million project has been made possible with a commitment of $30 million from the Albanese Government, $12.6 million from the Cook Government and $45.3 million from the City of Wanneroo.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Strong communities need good quality community infrastructure. That’s why my Government is building Australia’s Future and investing in these important local facilities.

“The Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre will become a hub for the Wanneroo community and support more than 250 local jobs during construction.

“This is on top of our commitment to deliver $200 million for more local housing and community infrastructure in regional Western Australia.”

the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:

“It’s so exciting to see construction begin on the Alkimos Aquatic Centre – a result of the funding partnerships in place for this terrific community facility in Perth’s north.

“I look forward to seeing works continuing to progress, which will support a real jobs and economic boost for Wanneroo while delivering this centre.”

WA Sport and Recreation Minister, David Templeman:

“This is a fantastic project that will benefit the residents of our northern corridor for generations to come.

“The Cook Government is taking Western Australia to the next level and this project is part of that vision.”

Federal Member for Pearce, Tracey Roberts:

“This project is a demonstration of our Government’s ongoing commitment to providing new and improved infrastructure for the electorate of Pearce that will encourage the community to thrive, both economically and socially.

“My commitment to this project has been unwavering. I have fiercely championed and advocated for the new Alkimos pool during my tenure as Mayor of the City of Wanneroo and as the Federal Member for Pearce.

“Today this exciting sod-turning event marks the commencement of construction of the facility, that will feature swimming pools, fitness areas, sports courts, and family gathering spaces.

“This new build will not only serve as a hub for learn-to-swim programs, physical activity but will also foster social connections among residents, strengthening the fabric of our community and will become a much loved and valued community asset.”

the Mayor of the City of Wanneroo, Linda Aitken:

“I’m pleased to be able to share the exciting news with the residents of the city’s northern suburbs, many of whom advocated for the new facility.

“We are committed to providing sport and recreation facilities that enable our residents to lead healthy and active lifestyles, no matter where they live in our city.

“The centre has been a high priority for the city since 2018, and it is important that we are able to deliver a state-of-the-art facility to suit the needs of our growing community well into the future.”

Greens call for ABC to be legislated as election debate host

With the Prime Minister kicking off the unofficial campaign for the 2025 Federal Election this week, the Greens are calling for the ABC to be declared the official host of the leaders’ debate and for the Greens’ leader to be included in the leaders’ debates.

Greens acting leader and spokesperson for communications Senator Sarah Hanson-Young urged the Prime Minister to name the ABC as the official leaders’ debate host and commit to legislating the policy to ‘Dutton-proof’ it.

“When parliament returns in February, the Greens will move for the ABC to be designated as the official host of the Federal Election leaders’ debate,” Senator Hanson-Young said.

“This is a simple and common-sense proposition; our national broadcaster should be the home of our national election debates.

“When it comes to our democracy and a fair and balanced leaders’ debate, we can’t leave it to the Murdoch Media.

“Voters deserve to be able to watch the debate for free on TV and online and for it to be moderated by the most trusted media outlet in the country.

“Unlike the commercial networks, the ABC is governed by a charter that demands that it act independently and with the best interests of the Australian people in mind.

“Election debates should be about providing information to Australian voters, not about securing ratings for billionaire media moguls.

“At the last election, we saw a sitting prime minister refuse to appear in a debate on the national broadcaster and instead participate in debates that were behind paywalls or on commercial networks.

“Australians pride ourselves on our free and fair elections. As we see the erosion of democratic institutions around the world, making the ABC our national election host broadcaster is an important step in preventing the wider spread of misinformation.

“Given neither major party looks able to win a majority, it is more important than ever that the Greens are included in the leaders debate because it will be the Greens holding both Labor and Liberals to account.”

City of Newcastle committees seeking fresh voices

Young Novocastrians are being given the chance to raise awareness of the issues that affect their lives and provide strategic advice on how to make Newcastle a better place to live.

Expressions of interest are now open for City of Newcastle’s Youth Council Standing Committee, which gives people aged 15 to 25 a platform to promote the interests of their peers, develop leadership skills and encourage youth participation in community matters.

The Youth Advisory Committee helps with initiatives such as the Youth Mock Council, seen here in the former Council Chambers in 2022.The Youth Advisory Committee helps with initiatives such as the Youth Mock Council, seen here in the former Council Chambers in 2022.It is one of eight advisory committees now seeking volunteers who are keen to have a direct impact on local issues, policies and initiatives that make a difference in Newcastle.   

Heading into his second term as a Councillor representative on the Youth Council Standing Committee, Newcastle’s youngest ever elected Councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull says it’s vital to engage the next generation in local government matters.

“These young representatives are the future leaders of our city, so we need to respect their ideas,” Cr Pull said.

“Our members work together to identify key issues impacting youth and develop strategies that encourage solutions and contribute to a more inclusive and youth-friendly Newcastle.

“By fostering youth leadership, promoting active participation, and giving young people a voice in local matters, we are not only empowering the next generation but also strengthening the fabric of our community.”

Community representatives serve on a voluntary basis for the four-year Council term and have an active role in organising activities for young people, as well as guiding the implementation of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan.

Members can provide advice for organisations wishing to develop programs and activities for young people and help to facilitate interactions between people with diverse interests and backgrounds.

Representatives also develop leadership skills through planning youth initiatives and staging events during Youth Week celebrations, as well as helping to allocate Youth Week grants and assisting Council to prepare applications.

The Youth Council is one of eight advisory committees run by City of Newcastle.

The other committees seeking new members are the:

•    Access Inclusion Standing Committee

•    Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee

•    Public Art Standing Committee 

•    Community & Culture Strategic Advisory Committee 

•    Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee 

•    Liveable Cities Strategic Advisory Committee 

•    Strategy & Innovation Strategic Advisory Committee

Expressions of interest are open until 24 January 2025. For more information visit:

https://haveyoursay.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/standing-strategic-advisory-committees

A healthy future for the Old Grafton Gaol

The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment has taken an important step forward, with a portion of the former Grafton Gaol set to be acquired from Property and Development NSW to support the upgrade of the hospital.

The Minns Labor Government is investing $263.8 million in the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment to improve health outcomes and meet the growing needs of Grafton and surrounding communities.

In addition to the site acquisition, a Development Application has been approved by the Northern Regional Planning Panel to refurbish two administration blocks within the former minimum-security portion, on the north-eastern corner of the gaol, to provide contemporary administrative, office and training support facilities.  

Clinical services will remain on the existing Grafton Hospital site.

The former Grafton Gaol operated between 1893 and 2020, it was closed following the opening of the new Grafton Correctional Centre in Lavadia. The former Grafton Goal was added to the state’s Heritage Register in 1999.

The adaptive reuse of a portion of the former gaol site aligns with the conservation management plan prepared for the site in 2021, to ensure areas of heritage significance within the site are preserved and activated.

Work is underway on the planning and design for the main works of the $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment, which will deliver a new three-storey acute services building, including a new Emergency Department, Emergency Short Stay, Medical Imaging and MRI, and inpatient unit.  

The current Day Surgery and Operating Suite will be expanded to provide two additional operating theatres, increasing overall capacity. Construction timeframes for the full redevelopment will be confirmed once planning has been finalised and a builder has been appointed, with the refurbishment works at the former gaol site expected to start this year.

Find out more information.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:

“The acquisition of this section of the old Grafton Gaol will provide critical new space to support the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.

“This multi-million dollar redevelopment will improve healthcare capacity and ensure the hospital has the best, most up to date models of care for the residents of Grafton and the surrounding communities.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper:

“The transfer of this part of the subdivided site to NSW Health ensures the Old Grafton Goal doesn’t remain an unused relic.

“This great outcome enables new uses for this important community asset, while also providing a major economic benefit for the Grafton community.”

Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong: 

“We have delivered another important milestone to revitalise and reuse one of our state’s key former correctional centres. 

“Grafton Gaol is an iconic place with a somewhat dark history, so it is wonderful we are delivering a positive new chapter that will ensure this monument serves the local community for years to come.” 

Labor Spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC:

“This is a fantastic outcome for the Grafton and Clarence communities as it secures the future use of this historic site, which will really benefit the local residents.”