The announcement of a new hospital in Sydney’s south-west has been significantly reinforced by a substantial investment of $700 million, as disclosed by NSW Premier Chris Minns. This funding brings the total project budget to an impressive $2 billion, aimed at establishing the Bankstown Hospital, which will feature a range of critical services including an emergency department, operating theatres, intensive care, and specialised facilities for mental health and women’s and children’s health.
Originally, plans for this hospital were introduced by the previous Berejiklian government in 2019, which allocated $1.3 billion for its construction. However, the project has faced delays, which the current government is now addressing. Premier Minns has identified the Bankstown TAFE site on Chapel Road for the new facility, noting that the TAFE will be relocated to a new campus built at the nearby Western Sydney University Tower, while some classes will be held at the Padstow campus.
Minns addressed public skepticism regarding government announcements about the hospital, expressing optimism that residents of Bankstown would eventually see the hospital completed. Meanwhile, the existing Lidcombe-Bankstown Hospital will remain operational as a local health facility.
Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted the previous government’s failure to advance the hospital site and pointed out that delays had left the south-west Sydney community waiting for over six years. He attributed these setbacks to construction cost overruns compared to the initial funding allocated by the Liberals. The Minns Labor Government is committed to moving forward with the project, ensuring that the necessary funds are available to see it through.
Construction of the new hospital is expected to begin in 2027, with plans to have the facility officially operational by 2031. This marks a significant step towards improving healthcare access for the rapidly growing population of south-west Sydney.