Construction has begun on Stage 2 of the Manning Hospital Redevelopment, a major step toward a new health facility for Taree and the wider Manning region.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the project would mean more services for the growing region.
“The Minns Labor Government is delivering more hospitals, more beds, and more health services for regional communities,” Mr Park said.
“This redevelopment at Manning Hospital will deliver expanded services for the community while supporting future growth.”
The redevelopment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s $180 million Lower Mid North Coast Health Service project and includes construction of a new clinical services building, due for completion in 2028. New artist’s impressions of the facility were released alongside the announcement.
Hunter New England Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey McCosker said the milestone reflected years of community advocacy.
“This is a significant milestone for the Manning community, which has advocated for improved health facilities for many years. It’s incredibly encouraging to see construction now underway and this long-awaited redevelopment becoming a reality,” Ms McCosker said.
The new building will feature an inpatient unit across three storeys, a six-bed coronary care unit for cardiac patients, a pharmacy, pathology spaces and a new mortuary, along with enhanced connections to the existing hospital building.
Following design development and community feedback, the project’s scope has grown. It will now include a full fit-out of pathology, pharmacy and mortuary spaces so they are operational from day one, construction of a loading dock to improve logistics and safety, and a more integrated internal connection to the existing hospital. The design also builds in an additional level within the clinical services building for future expansion of health services.
“Stage 2 of the Manning Hospital Redevelopment forms part of the nearly $3 billion investment the Minns Labor Government has made in regional hospitals and health facilities in the 2026-27 Budget,” Mr Park said.
Hansen Yuncken has been appointed as the main works contractor following a competitive tender process. The hospital will remain operational throughout construction, with planning under way to minimise impacts on patients, staff and the community.
Labor spokesperson for Myall Lakes Emily Suvaal said the upgrade would support hospital staff as well as patients.
“We’re providing modern facilities and equipping our hardworking health staff with the spaces and infrastructure they need to deliver safe, efficient and high-quality patient care,” Ms Suvaal said.
“It’s encouraging to see the project progress into main works construction, delivering upgraded facilities and improved access to healthcare services that will provide long-term benefits for communities across the Lower Mid North Coast.”
The $180 million Lower Mid North Coast Health Service project will also continue planning for an urgent care centre in Forster-Tuncurry.
“This redevelopment represents a major investment in the future of health care for the Manning region and reflects the strong advocacy and support we’ve seen from the community over many years,” Ms McCosker said.
“There’s genuine excitement about what this will mean for patients, families and staff, and we’re looking forward to seeing the new facility take shape over the coming years.”
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