Families with seriously ill children will soon have greater access to onsite accommodation at The Children's Hospital at Westmead with the upcoming expansion of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Greater Western Sydney.
Together with the Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) the Minns Labor Government has today announced a $250,000 funding contribution which SCHF will match totalling $500,000 for the RMHC.
This funding will enable RMHC to fit-out the dedicated family accommodation area in the newly constructed Paediatric Services Building.
This is in addition to the $659.1 million investment in the Stage 2 Redevelopment of The Children's Hospital at Westmead.
Located on Level 9 of the new 14-storey Paediatric Services Building, the new space will be located close to the cardiac and critical care inpatient units, ensuring families can remain near their children during the most critical times.
The new facility will be built and operated by RMHC and will provide:
- Overnight accommodation for up to ten families per night
- Kitchen facilities for preparing meals, as well as grab and go meals for families
- Communal spaces including a living room, dining area, and outdoor terrace
- Laundry amenities
- Wrap-around support services including counselling and mental health support.
In addition to this dedicated space, all inpatient units in the new Paediatric Services Building will include single patient bedrooms with an ensuite and a carer bed, allowing a parent to stay overnight with their child.
The new accommodation facility is expected to open in early 2026.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"Keeping families together, especially siblings, during treatment is vital for emotional wellbeing and recovery.
"The expanded site will help take pressure off families with sick kids who are going through a critical time, particularly for those who would otherwise have to travel far or pay for accommodation.
"We are proud to support this initiative, which further ensures families and children remain at the heart of healthcare
"This new accommodation will make a real difference to families going through some of the most challenging times in their lives, providing comfort and enabling them to stay together."
Quotes attributable to Member for Parramatta Donna Davis:
"It's pleasing that the Minns Labor Government's $250,000 funding contribution will help to secure a safe haven for families within the new Children's Hospital at Westmead.
"Having families close to the critical and cardiac care units 24/7 prioritises both the emotional and physical well-being of sick children ensuring they have access to the comfort of their family just an arm stretch away from their medical care."
Quotes attributable to Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation CEO Kristina Keneally:
"This expansion is about more than bricks and mortar - it's about creating hope, connection, and comfort for families when they need it most. Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation is proud to partner with the NSW Government and Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney to bring this vital accommodation to life for families at The Children's Hospital at Westmead.
"It's a powerful example of what can be achieved when philanthropy and government come together with a shared commitment to putting children and families at the heart of healthcare. Together, we can ensure families have a place close to their sick children during the toughest moments."
Quotes attributable to Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney CEO Claire Barber:
"At Ronald McDonald House Greater Western Sydney, we believe that keeping families close during a child's hospital stay is more than a comfort, it's a crucial part of the healing journey. This new accommodation space within the Paediatric Services Building will allow parents and carers to be just moments away from their child's bedside, especially during critical care.
"We're incredibly grateful for the support from the NSW Government and Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation. Together, we're creating a space where families can find rest, connection, and strength during some of the most difficult times in their lives."
