Rural and regional NSW to benefit from $1.2 billion health infrastructure boost”

A re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government will inject $1.2 billion in critical health infrastructure to build and upgrade 20 hospitals and health facilities, providing a major boost to communities right across state. 

NSW Nationals candidate for Cessnock Ash Barnham said this investment would continue the work of a Coalition Government that has spent the last decade building new and upgrading existing hospitals and health facilities right across the state. 

“Since 2011, the NSW Nationals have delivered more than 180 health infrastructure projects across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway.

“This includes the $111.48 million redevelopment of Cessnock Hospital, which is being delivered by the NSW Nationals” Mr Barnham said. 

“These critical investments in health infrastructure are only possible thanks to the Liberal and Nationals long-term economic plan to keep our state moving forward.” 

Of the 20 hospitals and health facilities set to be upgraded within this $1.2 billion boost, 14 will be delivered in rural and regional NSW. 

“While Labor plan on dumping the Regional Health portfolio, the NSW Liberal and Nationals in Government are focused on improving health outcomes for our regional, rural and remote communities,” Mr Barnham said. 

“It is only the NSW Liberal and Nationals that are committed to future-proofing health care in the bush – that is our track record. We will continue to ensure our rural and regional communities have the health facilities they need and deserve.” 

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has more than tripled Labor’s previous health infrastructure spend and is also investing heavily in supporting the health workforce. 

“These world class facilities are only as good as the people who work there,” Mr Barnham said. 

“Building new health facilities plays a big part in helping to attract and retain health workers and ensuring better health outcomes for patients.” 

The 2022-23 NSW Budget includes $4.5 billion to deliver the largest health workforce boost in Australia’s history, with 10,148 full-time equivalent staff set to join the health ranks over four years.