Construction is now complete on the expansion of inpatient palliative care spaces at Orange Health Service, which will improve end-of-life care for the Orange community and surrounding areas.
Delivered as part of the Minns Labor Government's $93 million World Class End of Life Care program, the project includes three new dedicated palliative care bedrooms with support spaces enhancing comfort and privacy for patients and families.
The new palliative care rooms are located on Level 1 of Orange Hospital, above the oncology ward and existing palliative care facilities. Designed to create a peaceful, home‑like environment to support patients and families, the spaces feature access to natural light, fresh air, and communal indoor and outdoor areas.
As part of the design, each bedroom will feature an original painting by a local artist. Additional artworks and photography by local photographer, Alf Manciagli will be displayed throughout the expanded space to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Following an Expression of Interest process, the courtyard area will also feature original work by local Aboriginal artist Sandon Gibbs‑Oneil, created in consultation with the Orange Health Service Aboriginal Reference Group to reflect culture, connection and Country.
The expansion was informed by extensive consultation with health professionals specialising in palliative and end‑of‑life care, Aboriginal representatives, carers and members of the local community to ensure the facilities meet the needs of patients and families across the region.
The project will now progress to final commissioning and operational readiness ahead of opening to patients in the coming weeks.
For more information about the World Class End of Life Care Program, visit: World Class End of Life Care Program
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"This is a significant investment in compassionate care for patients, families, carers and the clinical staff who support them.
"The Minns Government is committed to ensuring people with life‑limiting illnesses receive high‑quality end‑of‑life care at the right time, and in the right place.
"These modern, purpose‑built spaces will help provide comfort, dignity and support during what can be an extremely difficult time."
Quotes attributable to Member for Orange Phil Donato
"I congratulate Health Minister Park for responding to the needs of our community and delivering improved inpatient palliative care services here at the Orange Health Service."
"I have passionately advocated and lobbied for the return of inpatient palliative care services to Orange Health Service, which we have witnessed delivered in recent years - and I now welcome this further expansion of the unit to provide greater capability in meeting the increasing needs of our community."
"I wish to acknowledge the dedication of Orange Push for Palliative, who are to be credited with not only making this revived ward a reality, but for making it such a supportive and peaceful space for families and their loved ones who require specialised end-of-life care."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Orange Stephen Lawrence MLC:
"With construction complete, the new palliative care spaces are one step closer to welcoming patients and families.
"Community feedback played a crucial role in shaping the design, which has helped create a warm, home‑like environment that prioritises privacy, connection and comfort, as well as access to natural light and outdoor areas.
"This expansion strengthens palliative care for the region and reflects what our community told us matters most."
