Work to double the size of the Nioka Palliative Care Unit at Tamworth Hospital has taken a key step forward, following the appointment of the building contractor.
The Tamworth Hospital palliative care unit expansion is being delivered as part of the NSW Government's $93 million World Class End of Life Care program to develop and enhance a number of palliative care units across the state.
As part of the project, the existing Nioka facility will be expanded, doubling its capacity to 12 palliative care beds.
The expanded unit will feature six new palliative care bedrooms with ensuites, as well as shared spaces including flexible outdoor zones and staff areas to create a supportive environment for patients and their loved ones. The facility has been designed to create a home-like environment and includes spacious bedrooms with warm interior finishes and large windows overlooking private courtyards.
The enhanced facilities will support staff to deliver specialist care while also promoting the privacy, comfort and dignity of people with life-limiting illnesses who have complex symptoms or end-of-life care needs.
Three courtyards will provide green spaces for relaxation, including a private outdoor area. The expanded unit will also feature an overnight room to enable additional family members to stay close to their loved ones.
The existing Nioka Palliative Care Unit will also undergo a major refresh so that it blends seamlessly with the new part of the building.
Consultation with the Hunter New England Local Health District palliative care staff, carers and community members is shaping the design for the expanded unit, to ensure it meets the needs of the local community.
North Construction and Building has been awarded the building contract to deliver the project. Site establishment works will progress in the coming weeks with construction expected to be completed in early 2027.
In addition to Tamworth, new or redeveloped palliative care facilities are being delivered across NSW as part of the World Class End of Life Care program, including at Wyong, Nepean, Westmead and Orange hospitals.
For more information about the World Class End of Life Program, visit nsw.gov.au/palliative-care-program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
"The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses have access to compassionate, end-of-life care close to home.
"We know that high quality, palliative care can help bring humanity and dignity for both patients and their loved ones. That's why we're allocating $93 million as part of the World Class End of Life Care funding to deliver five new or refurbished purpose-designed palliative care units for staff to deliver the absolute best care and support to patients and families during what can be an extremely difficult time."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Tamworth, Anthony D'Adam MLC:
"I'm pleased to see work progressing for the expanded palliative care unit at Tamworth Hospital and I'm looking forward to this project taking shape.
"I welcome this exciting step in the delivery of expanded palliative care services for the Tamworth community."
Quotes attributable to a Hunter New England Local Health District representative Wendy Wilks:
"Our expanded palliative care unit at Tamworth will provide a modern, purpose-built health facility that supports staff as they deliver high-quality care, while offering patients and their families access to other complementary services within Tamworth Hospital.
"The expanded palliative care unit will also offer privacy and comfort for patients and families, featuring individual and communal areas and flexible outdoor spaces."
