The Armidale community is a step closer to new key health worker accommodation, with a site near Armidale Hospital selected for redevelopment under the State Government’s $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation Program.
Rusden House, an ageing dormitory-style staff block about 200 metres from the hospital, will be repurposed into contemporary self-contained units aimed at attracting and retaining healthcare workers in the region.
Designs for the redevelopment are expected to be finalised in the coming months and will include accessible accommodation and improved energy-efficiency measures. Construction is set to begin following the appointment of a main works contractor.
Armidale is one of more than 20 rural, regional, and remote NSW locations to benefit from the $200.1 million program. The initiative includes new builds, refurbishment of existing accommodation, and the purchase of suitable residential properties.
The program will deliver accommodation across nine local health districts, including Hunter New England. It builds on a separate $27.9 million investment in housing for key healthcare workers in the Hunter New England and Western NSW Local Health Districts, delivered as part of the $35 million Regional Housing Package, which is now complete and operational.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said secure and affordable housing was essential to workforce stability in regional areas.
“Providing affordable, safe, and convenient accommodation for essential health workers is critical to attracting and retaining skilled staff in regional and rural areas.
“This is why the Minns Government has invested $200.1 million to deliver more Key Health Worker Accommodation in Armidale and across NSW.
“By investing in high-quality and modern accommodation, close to workplaces, we’re helping to remove barriers to working in a regional setting and supporting a stronger workforce.”
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