The New South Wales Government is boosting healthcare in the Batemans Bay region by releasing a $20 million construction tender for a new Community Health facility. Announced by Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park, this modern center aims to provide crucial, accessible services for patients and families, marking a significant investment in the area’s health infrastructure.
A Major Milestone for Regional Healthcare
The release of the construction tender is a pivotal moment for the Batemans Bay community. Minister Ryan Park described it as a “significant milestone,” highlighting the collaborative effort of healthcare staff and local stakeholders in designing the project.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to strengthen healthcare services in rural and regional NSW. By investing directly in community-level facilities, the government aims to ensure residents outside of major cities have access to high-quality care.
Residents are being encouraged to provide their final feedback on the plans, which are now on public display. This step ensures the final facility truly reflects the needs of the people it will serve.
What the New Facility will Offer
The Batemans Bay Community Health facility is designed to be a comprehensive hub, offering a wide range of services to meet both current and future health demands of the local population.
It will provide a seamless connection between different types of care, reducing the need for patients to travel for essential services. Key offerings are set to include:
- Allied health services such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
- Specialised child and family support programs.
- Community mental health and wellness initiatives.
- A fully equipped gymnasium for therapeutic and rehabilitation purposes.
- Modern spaces for private consultations, treatments, and group therapy sessions.
This state-of-the-art center is intended to function as a cornerstone of community well-being, focusing on preventative care and long-term health management.
Strategic Location and Integrated Care
The new facility will be strategically built on the existing Batemans Bay Hospital site. This location was chosen to create an integrated health precinct, making it easier for patients to access different services.
It will complement the new $330 million Eurobodalla Regional Hospital, ensuring a smooth transition for patients moving between acute hospital care and community-based support. Furthermore, its proximity to the Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, which opened in late 2023, will enhance convenience and streamline patient pathways. This co-location of services is a modern approach to healthcare delivery, designed to improve efficiency and patient outcomes.
Community Input and Project Timeline
Community engagement has been a central part of the planning process. The project’s Review of Environmental Factors is currently available for public comment on the Health Infrastructure website until December 16, 2024, allowing for a transparent review process.
Following the tender evaluation, a builder will be appointed to finalize the project’s scope and design. The expected timeline for the project is laid out in clear phases.
| Project Milestone | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Builder Appointed | Early 2025 |
| Construction Begins | Later in 2025 |
| Community Updates | Ongoing |
Regular updates will be provided to the community to ensure everyone is kept informed as construction progresses. The government has committed to delivering a facility that not only meets clinical needs but also becomes a source of pride for the Batemans Bay region.
