NSW BUDGET CONFIRMS CONTINUED FUNDING FOR REDEVELOPMENT OF GRAFTON BASE HOSPITAL

The continued redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital has received a significant boost in today's NSW Budget, with $30 million allocated over the next financial year to progress the transformative project, State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson has welcomed.

The $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment, initiated under the former NSW Nationals Government, remains on track and brings the Clarence Valley community one step closer to improved healthcare services and facilities.

Mr Williamson said the funding commitment demonstrated the importance of ensuring major regional health projects continue to be delivered.

"We'll see $30 million invested over the next 12 months, with the remaining funding coming as construction of the project progresses," Mr Williamson said.

"This is about delivering modern, fit-for-purpose health infrastructure that supports better patient outcomes, timely access to care and improved conditions for our hardworking health staff.

"The redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital is one of the most significant investments in healthcare infrastructure our region has ever seen and it is vital that momentum continues."

Mr Williamson said the Budget Papers also confirmed the NSW Government's $20 million commitment for the fit-out of the maternity wing as part of the redevelopment, with planning funding allocated in the 2026-27 financial year.

"This is another important milestone for the project and welcome confirmation that a fully-equipped maternity wing is part of this stage of the redevelopment, not down the track," he said.

"I have worked closely with the Minister for Health to ensure this redevelopment continues to progress and I welcome today's funding confirmation."

Mr Williamson said the redevelopment would be complemented by the NSW Government's separate $14.2 million investment in key health worker accommodation at the former Grafton Gaol site, which is now nearing completion.

"The accommodation project will deliver 36 modern studio apartments for healthcare workers and is an important piece of the puzzle in ensuring we can attract and retain the skilled staff needed to support our growing health services," Mr Williamson said.

"With the health worker accommodation project almost complete and today's Budget confirming continued funding for the hospital redevelopment, we are seeing real progress being made on two critical investments in healthcare for the Clarence Valley.

"These projects will work hand-in-hand to strengthen our local health system, support our healthcare workforce and deliver better outcomes for patients across the region."

Mr Williamson said he would continue working with the NSW Government and advocating strongly to ensure the redevelopment remains on track and delivers the healthcare facilities the Clarence Valley community needs and deserves.