The Minns Labor Government is securing the future of a crucial Indigenous health training facility, which is helping to close the gap in health outcomes across our state.
The Government is making a $1.48 million investment to upgrade the training headquarters of the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council (AH&MRC) at Little Bay.
Representing more than 40 member organisations, AH&MRC is the peak body for Aboriginal community-controlled health services across NSW. Aboriginal-controlled health services play a vital role in efforts to improve life expectancy and health outcomes for First Nations people, delivering culturally appropriate care. AH&MRC operates a registered training organisation, helping the next generation of Indigenous health workers embark on their careers, while strengthening the skills of the existing workforce.
The organisation's training spaces are located at the former Prince Henry hospital site at Little Bay. The facility includes lecture rooms, along with clinical demonstration and simulation training labs, which can simulate real-life medical emergencies. The NSW Government is funding the upgrade through Crown Lands, in the Department of Planning and Environment, which owns the site.
The work will bring the AH&MRC building up to modern standards, aligning with the latest National Construction Code. The upgrades are expected to be completed this year. These upgrades follow previous Crown Lands' investments of $1.13 million over the past two years for a range of improvements at the former Prince Henry hospital site.
These previous works included other repairs and upgrades to:
- The AH&MRC building
- Surf Lifesaving Building
- Jarrah House
- Nurses War Memorial Chapel
- The Coast Centre for Seniors
- Henry's Trading Post
- Pine Avenue retaining wall
- A 143-year-old tower clock was returned to working order.
Crown Lands as lessor is responsible for structural maintenance of all the buildings at the Prince Henry hospital precinct.
Premier Chris Minns said:
"There is really important work happening at this site, and we're proud to ensure that continues for years to come."
"The future healthcare workers trained at Little Bay will treat tens of thousands of patients across NSW."
"Aboriginal-controlled health services are helping people across our state."
"It's important they have a skilled workforce delivering high-quality health care services."
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs David Harris said:
"These improvements will ensure the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council has a safe and secure base for its innovation and training department to do its vital work with education and community health services for Aboriginal communities."
"Investing in First Nations infrastructure will help to ensure the security and longevity of key programs that deliver real benefits to our communities."
Minister for Lands Steve Kamper said:
"The historic former Prince Henry hospital site is located on Crown land and was home to NSW's first public hospital but today provides a home for a range of community organisations as well as open space for the community."
Member for Maroubra Michael Daley said:
"We are proud to support the excellent people at the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council continue to deliver for communities all across the state."
