Two significant milestones have recently been achieved as part of the Government’s $93 million capital investment in the World Class End of Life Care program.
From the official opening of a new purpose-built palliative care unit at Wyong Hospital to major construction progress on the expansion of Tamworth Hospital’s Nioka cccccccccccccccc, these developments are providing greater choice for individuals, families and communities, and improving access to specialist palliative and end-of-life care closer to home.
New Wyong Hospital Palliative Care Unit Opens Its Doors
The Central Coast community is now benefiting from a new dedicated Palliative Care Unit at Wyong Hospital, officially opened on 7 September 2026. Designed to provide comfort, dignity and privacy for people facing life-limiting illnesses, the purpose-built facility offers 12 palliative care bedrooms with ensuites, family-friendly communal areas, meeting spaces and thoughtfully landscaped outdoor environments.
Developed in close consultation with patients, families, community members and palliative care staff, the unit has been tailored to support both clinical excellence and emotional wellbeing. Key features include spacious bedrooms that accommodate visiting family members, private balconies, family dining spaces, landscaped gardens, communal outdoor areas and an overnight room for loved ones wishing to stay nearby.
The project was delivered by Health Infrastructure in partnership with Central Coast Local Health District and Renascent Australia. Community support also played an important role, with The Elsie’s Palliative Care Project contributing furnishings, specialist beds, garden enhancements and other amenities to enhance comfort for patients, families and carers.
“This new unit is a wonderful facility for the Wyong community and a great addition our region’s existing palliative care services, including the palliative care unit at Gosford Hospital and in-home services to meet individual and family needs.” said Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris.
Watch a fly through of the new unit here
Tamworth’s Nioka Palliative Care Unit Reaches Major Construction Milestone
Just days before the Wyong opening, Tamworth Hospital celebrated the first major concrete pour for the expansion of the Nioka Palliative Care Unit, marking a significant step forward in the delivery of enhanced palliative care services for the New England region.
More than 200 cubic metres of concrete, delivered in around 30 truckloads, were poured to create the foundations for the expanded facility and a new linkway connecting the existing unit. With the foundations now complete, the structure of the new building will begin to take shape over the coming months.
When completed in 2027, the expansion will double the unit’s capacity from six to 12 beds. The new facilities will include additional palliative care bedrooms with ensuites, communal spaces, meeting rooms and flexible outdoor areas designed to support patients, families and carers during some of life’s most challenging moments.
The redevelopment will also include refurbishment of the existing Nioka unit, creating an integrated facility that promotes dignity, privacy and comfort. Features such as oversized bedrooms, warm interior finishes, private courtyards and family accommodation have been specifically designed to create a welcoming, home-like environment.
“We are grateful to the staff and members of the community who have provided valuable input to shape the expanded unit, which will significantly enhance palliative care facilities for Tamworth and surrounding communities.” said Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park
Media release by the Minister for Regional Health can be found by clicking here.