Work is progressing on a new 32-bed multi-purpose ward at the Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH), designed to improve patient flow and enable further expansion of the facility.
Department of Logistics and Infrastructure A/CEO Gemma Lake said the new ward will increase the number of beds available at RDH to help relieve pressure on hospital capacity.
"Our department is working closely with NT Health and local contractor, Aspire, to deliver this much-needed facility.
"Construction is progressing well with the slabs for the mezzanine car park, first-floor and roof of the new ward now complete.
"A key project milestone was achieved this month with the installation of the link bridge, connecting the new ward to the main RDH tower."
The new ward is located at the front of RDH's main carpark next to the café. The building is elevated, allowing for a two-level undercover car park.
Sara Watson, General Manager of Royal Darwin Hospital said, "We are looking forward to the opening of the new 32-bed ward, which along with the new Mental Health building, will help with capacity issues at the Royal Darwin Hospital and better support the health care needs of Territorians."
The new multipurpose ward is being built in accordance with the Australasian Health Facility Guidelines (AusHFG). Facilities will include:
negative pressure single bedroomsstandard bariatric single bedroomgeneral bedroomssingle bedroomssupporting facilities such as offices and staff areasrenal (dialysis) will be able to be incorporated into each of the bedscapability to act as a pandemic ward.
The ward has been designed to allow for potential future expansion, with the ability to construct two additional wards above the new building.
Jim Eadie, Managing Director at Aspire, said the project is supporting approximately 130 jobs.
"Aspire is proud to support the ongoing health of Territorians with this new 32-bed ward. Designed as a multi-purpose facility, it will serve the community for years to come - an invaluable investment for future generations.
"This ward strengthens the Territory's health system by providing greater flexibility and long-term sustainability."
Construction of the new ward is expected to be completed in early 2026.
