Australia's New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced an investment of A$1m ($636,180) to upgrade hospitals and health facilities in Armidale and Moree, as part of the Regional Health Minor Works Program.

This initiative is a segment of a broader investment of nearly A$12m in 61 projects aimed at enhancing health services in regional areas.

Regional Health Minister Ryan Park said: “The Minns Labor government is committed to investing in upgrading health facilities to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities.

“The Regional Health Minor Works Program will allow Hunter New England Local Health District to upgrade equipment and health facilities to enhance the working environment for health staff and improve patient experiences.”

The funding allocation for the Northern Tablelands and Moree regions includes A$250,000 for carrying out improvements to Armidale Hospital's staff accommodation, which will benefit junior medical officers by adding new ensuites to bedrooms.

Another A$250,000 is designated for the refurbishment of Rusden House, an off-site staff accommodation building close to the hospital, to modernise rooms and install ensuites, thus increasing comfort for locum doctors and nurses.

Furthermore, Moree Hospital will receive A$250,000 to complete upgrades to its staff accommodation, including a renovation of the building's first floor and the addition of new ensuites to bedrooms.

The Armidale rehabilitation service is set to receive A$210,000 to upgrade the kitchen area, which will aid patients in regaining everyday skills and facilitate a quicker return to home life.

This also encompasses the transformation of existing facilities into a new accessible toilet and cleaning closet.

An additional A$75,000 has been allocated for the upgrade of an emergency decontamination shower room at Armidale Hospital.

The Hunter New England Local Health District aims to conclude the projects during the 2025/2026 financial year.