8 May 2026
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is boosting healthcare in Central Australia in the 2026 budget.New equipment for better care to speed up diagnosis and treatment.Alice Springs Hospital has increased medical specialist services including an Alice Springs based oncologist service to help treat cancer patients in Central Australia.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is boosting healthcare in Central Australia in the 2026 budget with Alice Springs Hospital receiving increased medical specialist services and new equipment to diagnose several conditions faster.
Minister for Health Steve Edgington said the 2026 budget included funding of over $380,000 for new equipment for Alice Springs hospital.
"As part of the 2026 budget, the CLP Government is delivering certainty for Centralians with better health services with more specialists and better infrastructure."
"As part of a renewed radiology contract with Jones and Partner until April 2031 to deliver high quality imaging services, the government has ensured new imaging equipment is secured. This includes magnetic resonance imaging and the bone density scanner, which mean faster diagnosis and treatment for many conditions, including osteoporosis", Minister Edgington said.
Among the new equipment for Alice Springs hospital are 45 replacement beds and an MRI ventilator which provides breathing support and stability to critically unwell or sedated patients during MRI scans.
There is also a new endometrial ablation device which allows minimally invasive treatment for women with health concerns, instead of major surgical procedures, such as a hysterectomy.
"The CLP has delivered expanded oncologist services in Alice Springs to improve cancer treatment for the people of Central Australia," Mr Edgington said.
"The expanded medical oncology staff allows better planning of care and has seen patient travel minimised from Alice Springs to Darwin and Adelaide, saving Centralians stress with earlier detection, earlier treatment, and getting care closer to home."
There is total funding of $750,000 annually which includes an increase of $300,000 for the oncology specialist services in the 2026 budget.
Mr Edgington said the improved cancer services had led to improved coordination of cancer care with additional staff, including a full-time cancer care nurse, to assist cancer patients through their treatment.
Central Australia residents have seen improved diagnostic services for lung cancer with a second respiratory physician, saving travel for a lung cancer diagnosis.
As well, a visiting Radiation Oncology Specialist from Darwin allows face-to-face appointments in Alice Springs.
Plastics and reconstructive surgeons from Darwin have also begun visiting Alice Springs as well to assist patients who need such surgery in the centre.
"As part of restoring the unique Territory lifestyle, we are delivering better healthcare for all Territorians including in Central Australia," Mr Edgington said.
