The latest designs, including a light-filled atrium, have been revealed for the new Tamworth Mental Health Unit in Australia.

This new mental health unit is expected to have 37 beds and has been shaped through extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including staff, consumers, carers, community members, and the local Aboriginal community.

The designs include the use of calming colours inspired by local surroundings.

Replacing the Banksia Mental Health Unit, the new facility will span two levels and include a direct enclosed walkway to the hospital.

The first level will house Child and Adolescent Community Mental Health Services, providing access to adolescent, adult, and older persons' mental health inpatient beds and facilities.

This new facility will feature specific areas for various age groups such as a four-bed adolescent unit; a 20-bed adult area, including five high-acuity beds; and an eight-bed area for older patients.

It is also expected to feature culturally sensitive design elements to support the Aboriginal community's movement within the building.

New South Wales (NSW) mental health minister Rose Jackson said: “This is a project close to the hearts of the Tamworth community and it’s exciting to be able to share the latest designs that have been shaped by their input.

“Community insight is invaluable, and we want to ensure that we’re incorporating as much feedback as we can.

“We look forward to welcoming the community and staff to information sessions being held this month where they will have the opportunity to view the designs in person and speak with the project team.”

The project is part of the NSW government's A$700m ($459.4m) state-wide mental health infrastructure programme.

With early works in progress, the main construction will commence later this year with completion expected in 2025.