People living with complex and long-term mental health needs in Western Sydney are a step closer to having a safe and supportive place to call home, with the first artist impressions released for new purpose-built mental health accommodation planned for Blacktown and Lalor Park.
Backed by the Minns Labor Government's record $3.3 billion investment in mental health, the new residences will provide therapeutic, home-like environments with 24/7 specialist support.
In a first for NSW, these purpose-built homes will support people with complex and long-term mental health needs transition from hospital care to community living.
The NSW Government is building up to 60 places across Sydney and the Hunter region.
The artist impressions of Blacktown and Lalor Park provide a first look at the contemporary design, which features private and shared living areas and outdoor spaces designed to support recovery, stability and greater independence.
The designs have been informed by engagement with staff and people with lived experience of mental health care, helping ensure the homes are inclusive, community-based and focused on recovery, dignity and independence.
The Review of Environmental Factors (REF) planning application and technical documents for the Blacktown site can viewed here and the REF for the Lalor Park site will be publicly exhibited this month, providing an opportunity for the community to have their say.
Construction for the Western Sydney homes will start in 2027, following planning approval and the appointment of a building contractor. The new homes are expected to be operational from mid-2028.
The project forms part of the NSW Government's $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program and complements the Minns Government's record $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, the largest investment in housing in our state's history.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson:
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to recover, live with dignity and receive the right support in a place that feels like home.
"For too long, people with complex mental health needs have faced challenges leaving hospital and rebuilding their lives in the community.
"This investment is helping break down those barriers by delivering more supported, community-based mental health care."
Quotes attributable to Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali:
"Communities in western Sydney deserve access to high-quality mental health care and support close to their families, friends and local community.
"I'm proud to see this important investment being delivered in Blacktown and Lalor Park, which is playing its part in providing a new model of mental health care."
