The A$110.2m ($70.4m) redevelopment of Cowra Hospital in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, has reached a key milestone with the completion of the building's structure.

The new hospital’s topping out signifies the latest construction milestone for the project.

NSW health minister Ryan Park said: “The topping out of the new hospital building is a major milestone in the delivery of a new health facility, which will enhance healthcare services for Cowra and the surrounding regions and increase capacity to better meet the current and future health needs of the local community.

“Our rural and regional communities, including the community of Cowra, deserve high quality contemporary and accessible health care, closer to home and this new hospital, due for completion next year will support staff, patients and the community now and into the future.”

The facility will offer a modern, purpose-built health environment upon completion.

It will encompass an emergency department, a general medical and surgery inpatient ward, peri-operative services, a maternity unit with a dedicated nursery, and notably, the hospital's first CT scanner.

The design of the new two-level hospital has been informed by staff and community feedback, focusing on providing improved district views, access, on-site parking, and new landscaped areas.

As the structural phase is now complete, the focus shifts to the internal fit-out, services installation, and exterior works.

Health services will continue uninterrupted during the construction.

The project is a collaborative effort between Health Infrastructure and Western NSW Local Health District, executed in collaboration with Richard Crookes Constructions.

The construction phase is contributing positively to the local economy, engaging 25 local businesses and employing numerous local contractors.

The new hospital is expected to open its doors next year.