Work is set to begin on a $1.6 million infrastructure upgrade at Maclean District Hospital aimed at improving patient care, safety, and hospital operations in Northern New South Wales. The project includes the replacement of the hospital’s internal lift and the installation of a new electronic nurse call system, with both upgrades scheduled to be completed simultaneously.
The funding for the project was announced by the Minns Labor Government in September 2025 as part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across regional New South Wales. According to the government, extensive planning has been undertaken to minimise disruption to patients, visitors, and staff while ensuring the works are completed efficiently and safely.
A major component of the project is the replacement of the hospital’s existing lift system, which is more than 30 years old and due for renewal. The new lift infrastructure, valued at approximately $600,000, is expected to improve operational reliability and accessibility throughout the hospital. Work to remove the old lift machinery and install the new system is scheduled to begin on 23 May 2026 and will continue over a three-month period.
At the same time, Northern NSW Local Health District will begin installing a new state-of-the-art electronic nurse call system valued at approximately $1 million. The upgraded system will operate across Maclean District Hospital and the surrounding community health campus, supporting improved communication between patients and healthcare staff and enhancing overall patient safety.
To maintain safety during construction works, several temporary operational changes will be implemented at the hospital. Patients currently accommodated in the Acute Care ward on Level Two will be temporarily relocated to Level One before construction begins. Access arrangements for patients and visitors will also be adjusted, including use of stairwells and an accessible covered walkway linking the hospital and community health building.
Patients receiving care in the Rehabilitation Ward on Level One will be temporarily transferred to the Rehabilitation Unit at Ballina District Hospital during the upgrade period. While Level Two remains vacant, additional maintenance works including repainting of ward areas will also be undertaken.
Hospital officials stated that patients will return to their original wards once all construction and maintenance works are completed. Staff, patients, and visitors have been advised to follow all worksite directions throughout the project to ensure safety is maintained across the hospital campus.
The NSW Government said the upgrades form part of its broader investment strategy aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure and services throughout the state, including regional communities. The government noted that it is currently delivering 32 new or upgraded hospitals and making record investments in health infrastructure across New South Wales.
Regional Health Minister Ryan Park stated that essential infrastructure upgrades such as modern lift systems and nurse call technology are critical to delivering safe and high-quality healthcare services in regional hospitals. The government also emphasized that the project will help ensure healthcare workers have access to modern facilities and systems needed to support patient care in Northern NSW.
Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said the upgrades would improve site functionality and strengthen communication between nursing staff and patients, contributing to enhanced patient safety and healthcare delivery at Maclean District Hospital.
