General News
26 November, 2025
Hospital enters final stage of redevelopment
ATHERTON Hospital is entering the final stage of its site-wide redevelopment, with a $12.9 million project to modernise the hospital’s existing South Ward.
Plans are well underway to refurbish the 25-bed South Ward on the ground floor, creating a more comfortable and modern space for patients, visitors and staff.
While the project will not be complete until late next year, preparatory works will begin this month to establish a temporary ward on Level 1 (the old medical ward) to accommodate South Ward patients while the redevelopment takes place.
Construction in the South Ward is expected to start next year, and when complete, the 25-bed unit will include a range of room configurations including six single-bed rooms with ensuites.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service chief executive Leena Singh said the project was an important step towards completing Atherton Hospital’s redevelopment.
“Patients and families will benefit from a more comfortable environment that supports care, while staff work in a modern and functional workplace,” she said.
“This will bring the standard of South Ward up to match the other new wards.”
Atherton Hospital acting South Ward nurse unit manager Colin Newnham said the redevelopment would deliver lasting benefits for patients and staff.
“The new South Ward will enhance patient privacy and comfort, while supporting staff to deliver care in a purpose-built, efficient environment,” he said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing patients benefit from these upgrades once the ward is complete in late 2026.
“Staff, patients, loved ones and carers will be kept informed of temporary ward locations, access arrangements and service continuity during key stages of this redevelopment.”
This project follows the successful delivery of the $86.4 million Community, Allied and Mental Health Building and the Clinical Services Building.
