Young people in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains now have better access to mental health care with the opening of the new Nepean Adolescent Mental Health Unit at Nepean Hospital.
It comes as the Minns Labor Government delivers a record $3.3 billion investment in mental health services in the 2026-27 Budget, representing a 20 per cent increase in funding since FY2022-23.
Delivered as part of the NSW Government's $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program, the new purpose-built unit will provide specialist mental health support to young people between the ages of 12 and 17.
The new unit includes:
- 10 single bedrooms with ensuites.
- Light-filled communal areas and secure outdoor courtyards.
- Specialised clinical spaces, including a sensory room and a media room.
- Learning and recreational spaces to help young people maintain their routine.
- A dedicated carer's suite, recognizing the vital role families play in recovery.
Doors opened in June with four places for young people. All ten beds are planned to be operational by the end of the year.
The Minns Labor Government is delivering more mental health facilities in New South Wales with new units recently completed in Tamworth and Broken Hill, and construction underway in Maitland and at Westmead Hospital.
The Government is also investing in alternatives to inpatient care, including funding for more community mental health clinicians and community-based care programs, building a network of free, walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres and expanding support for Safe Havens.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:
"Every young person deserves access to the mental health care they need, close to their family, school and support networks.
"This new purpose-built Nepean Adolescent Mental Health Unit at Nepean Hospital means young people in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains can access specialist support closer to home, in an environment designed specifically for their needs.
"The Minns Labor Government is making record investments in mental health because we know families deserve a system that is accessible, contemporary and focused on recovery."
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said:
"This is an important investment in the health and wellbeing of young people across Penrith.
"Families facing some of the most difficult circumstances will now have access to specialist mental health care closer to home, reducing the need to travel and helping young people stay connected to their support networks.
"I'm grateful to have a new facility open its doors and begin supporting young people in my community."
Member for the Blue Mountains Trish Doyle said:
"We know that access to mental health care close to home matters, particularly for young people and families already navigating challenging circumstances.
"This new unit will ensure young people from the Blue Mountains can access specialist care closer to the people and places that support their recovery.
"The dedicated carer's suite is a fantastic addition that will make it easier for families travelling to visit loved ones in hospital, helping to ease some of the pressures that can come with extended stays.
"This is a welcome investment for the Blue Mountains community and another step towards building a stronger, more accessible mental health system."
