Pregnant women and their families across the Clarence Valley will benefit from an upgraded purpose-built maternity unit following a $20 million funding boost from the Minns Labor Government.
The additional funding as part of the 2026-27 NSW Budget brings the total contribution to the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment to $283.8 million, and will deliver a contemporary maternity unit with dedicated birthing rooms and improved inpatient accommodation.
Funding will also enable the decommissioning and demolition of the existing unit.
Once complete, the purpose-built maternity unit will support the delivery of individualised, high quality and safe maternity care for families in the region.
The new unit forms part of the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment, which will also deliver an expanded emergency department and short stay unit, medical imaging, MRI services, inpatient unit, day surgery and operating suite with two new operating theatres.
The maternity unit fit out is expected to be completed by 2029 – in the meantime, women will continue to receive maternity care at the existing unit.
The redevelopment has also recently reached a major milestone, with the main works contractor appointed and construction set to begin in the coming weeks.
Richard Crookes Constructions has been appointed to deliver the main works, following a competitive tender process and planning approval.
The $20 million funding boost builds on the investment the Minns Labor has already delivered to improve maternity and family services, including the $83 million Maternity Package as part of the 2025-26 Budget.
For more information about the new Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/health-infrastructure-projects/grafton-base-hospital-redevelopment
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
“This investment will deliver women in the Clarence Valley improved access to world-class maternity care, closer to home.
“We know that contemporary maternity services and facilities lead to better outcomes and more positive experiences.
“This $20 million additional funding boost will enhance local maternity services and support women to access care that is consistent, compassionate and tailored to their needs.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin:
“As Minister for the North Coast, I am thrilled to see this vital injection of funding for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment.
“This isn’t just about a new building; it’s about giving local women, babies, and hardworking healthcare staff the modern, purpose-built space they deserve.
“The Minns Labor Government is listening to regional communities and delivering the essential health infrastructure the Clarence Valley needs to thrive for generations to come.”
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Clarence Emily Suvaal:
“This significant additional investment in maternity services is bringing the Grafton community and surrounding areas a step closer to improved health services.
“By building this new maternity unit, we are future-proofing much needed maternity services and care for the Clarence Valley community.”
