$700,000 BOOST FOR REFURBISHMENTS AT GRAFTON’S COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY WELCOME

A $700,000 funding boost will deliver much-needed refurbishment and facility upgrades at the Aruma Community Mental Health facility in Grafton, helping ensure the existing service has a safe, functional and welcoming environment for patients, families and staff, State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson said.

The funding is part of the NSW Government’s $12 million Regional Health Minor Works Program and will deliver a range of improvements at the Grafton facility, including new floor coverings, ceilings and lighting, general maintenance, upgraded outdoor patient interview spaces and external waiting areas.

A new air conditioning system and ICT equipment will also be installed, creating a more welcoming and functional environment for both patients and staff.

Mr Williamson said the funding was welcome and would make a practical difference to people accessing mental health services in Grafton.

“This is a very welcome investment in an important health facility serving people across the Clarence Valley,” Mr Williamson said.

“People accessing mental health services deserve facilities that are comfortable, welcoming and fit for purpose, and these upgrades will deliver some much-needed improvements at Aruma.

“The works will benefit both patients and staff, with improvements to the internal environment as well as the outdoor interview and waiting areas.

“Aruma provides an important service to people in our region, and these upgrades will help create a better environment for those accessing care as well as the dedicated staff delivering it.

“I look forward to seeing the refurbishment get underway and ultimately providing a facility that better meets the needs of the local community.”

The refurbishment is expected to commence in mid-2027.