The NSW Government will begin consultation with the local community on the future of the David Berry Hospital site in September 2024
In June 2022 under the previous Coalition Government, the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District Board determined that health services provided at the 118-year-old hospital could be more appropriately and effectively delivered in the modern settings at the $438 million redeveloped Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital, which is due for completion in late 2026.
The NSW Minister for Health and Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, confirmed the site will continue to be used for the public good, and invites the local community to have their say on future use options for the site.
The community consultation will involve local residents, the Aboriginal community, environmental groups as well as other interested parties.
The consultation will initially include an online ‘Have Your Say’ survey, which the community will be able to access from Monday, 9 September 2024. This will be supported by further, targeted consultation following the ‘Have Your Say’ survey.
The NSW Government will work on amending the David Berry Act 1906 in due course, to adequately reflect the community’s vision for the future use of the site.
Once complete, the $438 million Shoalhaven redevelopment will provide upgraded and contemporary health facilities, an increased capacity to meet future population growth and support the overall health needs of the higher-than-average proportion of elderly and disadvantaged residents in the Shoalhaven region.
In the meantime, residents will continue to receive safe, high-quality care from the dedicated health professional team at David Berry Hospital.
Minister for Illawarra & South Coast Ryan Park said, “This 118-year-old hospital may no longer be fit for its original purpose, but I am determined to see it maintained for the benefit of the public and the local community.
“We will soon announce details about the consultation process, and I encourage local residents to participate in this important process.”
Labor spokesperson for Kiama Sarah Kaine MLC said, “David Berry Hospital has played an important role in the local community, serving the community during some of their toughest times.
“We are eager to hear from the local region how this community asset can best serve them now and in the future, alongside Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital.
“I am proud of the progress we’re making on the $438 million redevelopment of Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital with main works well and truly underway.”
