A new report has been released detailing the extensive community and staff engagement regarding the future of the David Berry Hospital site in New South Wales. The report outlines the feedback gathered and confirms the commitment of the Minns Labor Government to maintain the site in public hands, ensuring that the Berry community and its surroundings continue to benefit from a dedicated health presence.
Minister for Health Ryan Park emphasized the importance of aligning the future use of the site with the values and needs of the local community. The report confirms that formal engagement activities with the local Aboriginal community will commence in 2026, following the second phase of community consultation, which involved independent consultants, RPS, collaborating with over 130 community members through focus groups and pop-up events.
The second phase of consultation follows the 2024 Have Your Say survey, where nearly 1,200 respondents expressed their views on future health and wellness services at the hospital. An impressive 87 percent of participants indicated a preference for healthcare to remain the primary focus of the site. The findings from this consultation phase are now available online.
Commitment to Community Engagement
According to Park, the David Berry Hospital has served the community for more than a century. Although it is no longer fit for its original purpose, he stressed the significance of ensuring that any future use reflects the needs of all community members. The Minister acknowledged the historical challenges faced by local Aboriginal communities, stating,
“We recognize the negative impact the site has had on local Aboriginal communities, through systemic racism, historical colonial policies and the impact on local Elders related to the Stolen Generations and their families.”
This statement highlights the government’s intention to engage meaningfully with First Nations communities. Park reassured that their feedback, along with that of the broader community, will play a crucial role in determining the future of the site.
Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney expressed her satisfaction with the progress made in advocating for community-led decisions regarding the hospital’s future. She noted her collaboration with Park and NSW Health over the past two and a half years, emphasizing the importance of working closely with the local Aboriginal community to shape future uses of the site.
Next Steps for Community Consultation
The report outlines key recommendations for the next steps, indicating that the formal Aboriginal-led engagement activities will begin shortly. The engagement report is expected to be finalized by mid-2026, with ongoing consultation efforts dedicated to ensuring the site remains a meaningful health resource for the region.
The NSW Government remains committed to collaborating with health stakeholders and the community to explore various health-related options for the David Berry Hospital site. This initiative marks a significant step towards reinforcing the community’s voice in shaping local health services while acknowledging the historical context and the need for inclusive decision-making.
