The community and stakeholders have had their say on the future of the David Berry Hospital site, with the overwhelming majority of respondents to the recent Have Your Say survey (87%) expressing a preference for the continuation of health and wellness services at the site.
The NSW Government has released the David Berry Hospital Community Engagement Report, which summarises the key findings from nearly 1,200 responses received during the consultation.
The report is available for the community to review on the Have Your Say website.
The feedback gathered will enable focused discussions, working groups and broader consultation opportunities with local residents, clinicians and staff, the Aboriginal community, environmental and heritage groups, and other interested parties to continue over the coming months.
When health services relocate to the $448 million redeveloped Shoalhaven Hospital in 2026, the David Berry site will take on a new role with the help of the local community.
In the meantime, residents will continue to receive safe, high-quality care from the dedicated health team at David Berry Hospital.
The Have Your Say survey gathered nearly 1,200 responses on the site's historical and cultural value, potential future uses, and partnership opportunities.
As well as strong support for health and wellness services, respondents also showed an interest in preserving the site's historical aspects and green spaces, and a preference for community-led initiatives over commercial or residential developments.
Responses also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the future use of David Berry Hospital appropriately acknowledges and includes Aboriginal perspectives.
The Minns Labor Government will consider any amendments required to the David Berry Hospital Act 1906 once the future use of the site has been identified. This legislative process will take some time to complete and additional consultation will be required on amendments to the Act.
For the latest information on the future of the David Berry Hospital site, including future opportunities to have your say, to read the Community Engagement Report or to contact the team, visit Have your say - The future of David Berry Hospital.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"I want to thank everyone who responded to the survey, including local residents, healthcare professionals, heritage groups, and other community organisations.
"The nearly 1,200 responses reflect the community's strong interest in the site's future, and we will ensure stakeholders are listened to and kept well informed about next steps.
"Although no longer suitable for its original purpose, this government will ensure the David Berry Hospital site will continue to serve the community."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine MLC:
"I've heard from many people how important the David Berry Hospital Site is to the local community, and it's been fantastic to see this represented in the number and variety of responses we have received so far.
"I am confident that with ongoing consultation we can have this site remain a suitable and valuable asset to the community."
