The Territory Labor Government has delivered on another job creating election commitment with the delivery of Royal Darwin Hospitals new free multistorey carpark now open to patients, visitors and staff.
The new facility created over 150 jobs during the construction phase, including nine Indigenous trainees, and provides 340 additional parking spaces at the hospital, increasing the total to 448.
Local construction company Sunbuild Pty Ltd won the $12 million contract, with final designs providing for a six-storey carpark.
The design allows for one additional floor to be added as the population expands.
The additional parking will significantly reduce pressure on Carpark 1 and the ED Carpark, improving access and availability for emergency and vulnerable patients.
We thank staff and patients for their continued patience during the construction period.
The free carpark welcomed the first patients, visitors and staff at RDH from 5pm on Thursday 1 November.
Comments from Minister for Health, Natasha Fyles:
The free multistorey carpark is an election commitment from the Territory Labor Government, and supported 150 jobs during the construction phase.
The chaotic CLP government introduced a confusing paid parking scheme, which only served to put more pressure and stress on many Territorians already in stressful situations at the hospital.
We promised to increase the car parks and make them free, and that has happened.
The new carpark is a wonderful and welcomed addition to the Royal Darwin Hospital campus.
Not only will the additional car parking provide improved access and availability for patients, it will also provide safe and secure car parking for our dedicated staff.
Comments from Local Member for Casuarina, Lauren Moss:
Completion of the multi-story carpark delivers on another important election promise.
Territorians deserve access to high quality health care.
The fast tracked Royal Darwin Hospital carpark provides 448 car parking spaces for staff, visitors and patients easing access to health services.
Comment from RDH Director of Nursing, Jenny OShoughnessy:
Having access to well lit, secure, monitored and easily accessible parking is essential for hospital staff.
Afternoon shift nursing staff, often finish their shifts late at night. This new carpark will mean that these staff members can feel confident and safe when walking back to their cars at the end of shift.
Patient, staff and visitor security is as priority for RDH exec and we are committed to ensuring safe access for all.
