Communities in Scone, Muswellbrook, and Dungog will benefit from a $750,000 funding boost from the NSW Government to upgrade hospitals and health facilities in the region.
The Minns Labor Government is investing a total of almost $12 million in 61 projects as part of the Regional Health Minor Works Program.
Projects for the Upper Hunter region include:
- $250,000 for an Emergency Department expansion at Scone Memorial Hospital, which will convert a temporary overflow area into a permanent space and support the continuation of clinical care.
- $250,000 for a new palliative care room at Muswellbrook Hospital, with an ensuite and carer support space.
- $250,000 to deliver new staff accommodation at Dungog Hospital, enhancing safety and improving capacity for temporary staff.
Hunter New England Local Health District is planning to complete these projects in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:
"The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in upgrading health facilities to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities.
"The Regional Minor Works Program will allow Hunter New England Local Health District to expand the size of the ED at Scone, create a more comfortable space for palliative care patients and their loved ones at Muswellbrook and boost the availability of key health worker accommodation at Dungog.
"The program is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for the Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal MLC:
"This Government's committed to investing in regional, rural and remote healthcare.
"Being in or caring for a loved one in Palliative Care can be incredibly difficult, so the $250,000 investment in the palliative care space at Muswellbrook will be very welcome.
"The Emergency Department expansion at Scone will assist the hard-working staff there in providing the best possible care to the Upper Hunter community"
Quotes attributable to Acting Executive Director of Infrastructure, Planning, and Sustainability Anna Styles-Tape:
"These investments continue our District's goal of improving healthcare for regional areas, and we look forward to sharing updates with the local communities about each project as they progress."
