Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
NT govt pumping millions into health service upgrades
Budget funding for a new health centre and bereavement facility have been announced by the NT government along with upgrades to services and medical equipment.
April 24, 2023
The Northern Territory government is set to spend millions upgrading hospitals and health centres across the region.
Funding to be allocated in the Territory’s 2023/24 budget in May includes $25 million to build a a 32-bed multi-purpose ward at Royal Darwin Hospital.
A new morgue and a culturally appropriate bereavement facility for grieving relatives to identify and view loved ones’ bodies will also be constructed.
Another $20m will be spent in the west Arnhem Land community of Gunbalanya to build a health centre with consulting rooms, emergency bays and renal facilities.
Hospital sterilisation services in Alice Springs, Katherine, Gove and Darwin will also be upgraded at a cost of $37.3m, and $9m will be spent over three years to replace ageing medical equipment.
New purchases will include high-end ultrasound scanners and CT scanners.
“This sets up our health system post COVID and for the future,” Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said on Monday.
“No matter where you live in the Territory, the bush or city, you deserve access to quality health care.”