The NSW Government thanks the community for providing feedback on future options for the David Berry Hospital site, with almost 1,200 responses received in the first phase of community consultation.
When health services relocate to the redeveloped Shoalhaven Hospital in 2026, the David Berry site will take on a new role with the help of the local community.
The feedback from the 'Have Your Say' survey is an important step in helping the NSW Government determine future options for the site and will guide the development of more focused discussions, working groups and further consultation.
Some of the early key themes from the Have Your Say survey responses include:
- Most respondents valued the role David Berry Hospital has played in community healthcare
- Most respondents would like to see the site continue to provide health and wellness services
- Most respondents supported partnerships with community organisations to provide services
- Most respondents supported mixed use partnerships that balance public and community needs that align with community values including preserving the heritage and green spaces and natural environments
- More than 650 respondents provided free text responses to share additional suggestions, stories and feedback
- More than 600 respondents registered for consultation updates and future sessions.
- The NSW Government will now undertake an in-depth analysis of the feedback from the Have Your Say survey to inform the second phase of consultation. This will include in person, focus groups and sessions, which will begin by the end of March 2025.
Focus groups will include local residents, the Aboriginal community and local Elders, organisations and businesses, clinicians and staff, community groups and government stakeholders.
The NSW Government will also update the David Berry Hospital Act 1906 to clarify the NSW Government's use of the site. This legislative process will take some time to complete and additional consultation will be required on amendments to the Act.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"I would like to thank the local community and other interested parties for taking the time to answer questions, share their suggestions, stories, and feedback.
"It is great to see so many people engaged in this first phase of the consultation process.
"Although no longer suitable for its original purpose, the David Berry Hospital site will remain in public hands. The NSW Government will proactively continue to consider the best future use of the site that is in line with the community's vision and needs."
Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine MLC:
"I thank the 1,200 members of the community who have responded to the Have Your Say survey.
"I am confident that with ongoing consultation we can have this site remain a suitable and valuable asset to the community."
