Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is included in the expansion projects?
The expansion project will deliver a new wing off the existing hospital building, a multi-storey car park and an on site helipad.
Health services included in the build will be our Women’s Health Unit with new birthing suites and maternity ward, Special Care Nursery, Child and Adolescent Unit, new medical wards and the Ronald McDonald Family Room.
The former Mackay Birth Centre building has been removed to make way for the hospital expansion and options to deliver a new Birth Centre off-site are being explored. In the interim, the Mackay Birth Centre model of care is being offered in a dedicated suite in our Women’s Health Unit.
Where will the multi-storey car park be located and when will work start?
Planning for the multi-storey car park project is currently being finalised and various site options on the hospital campus are being considered. Engagement with neighbouring residents and the final location decision will be made in due course.
To enable our health facilities to expand with safe and effective linkages between our clinical services, the construction of the car park will begin following a robust planning period to ensure it will be designed with the future in mind.
What disruptions will I experience during the construction of the car park?
Our number one priority in delivering these projects is the health and safety of our local community, patients, visitors and hospital staff.
While every effort will be made to minimise disruption to hospital staff, nearby residents and businesses during construction works, you may notice localised construction impacts throughout the delivery of the project.
As they are required, local traffic management plans will be developed to ensure construction activities are closely managed to reduce impacts on local roads and the community. All changes will be clearly communicated necessary permits and advice will be sought from Mackay Regional Council before any works commence.
Why are we expanding Mackay Base Hospital?
More beds are needed at the hospital to improve patient flow and patient experiences. The expansion project will enhance equitable local access to services for the wider Mackay region now and into the future.
It will also provide frontline hospital workers with the facilities they need to meet the rising demand for healthcare in the region and ensure Mackay residents have access to a range of health services closer to home.
When will construction commence and be complete?
Contractors are now on site with construction targeting a completion date in late 2026, subject to weather and latent conditions.
The first stage of the project commenced with site establishment works such as erecting fencing and hoarding, setting up project offices and clearing the site underway.
Queensland Health acknowledges the traditional owners of the land and the historical significance of the Mackay Hospital expansion project site. We understand the importance of cultural sensitivities associated with the area.
As part of our commitment to preserve cultural heritage, a Cultural Heritage Consultant continues to be involved in engagement with key First Nations and Australian South Sea Islander stakeholders and is advising on procedures and processes required to be in place as this project progresses.
Will there be consumer input in the expansion project?
Engaging with all types of patients and carers provides valuable and ongoing insight in the expansion process.
Feedback from consumers and the community regarding design layout and travel was sought in the design phase. This will help ensure the needs of patients and carers during their hospital stay have been considered as part of the expansion project. Ongoing engagement with our user groups will continue.
Will more staff be required and how can I apply for a job?
As part of the expansion, and prior to its opening, a workforce plan will be developed to determine the requirements. There will be opportunities for nursing, medical, allied health and support staff.
More information on job opportunities will be provided as recruitment plans develop.
How can I stay up to date with the expansion project?
We are committed to keeping our near neighbors, community and stakeholders informed of progress and milestones. Regular updates will be provided via our website and social media channels as the expansion progresses.
You can contact us via our project email if you have any queries: mackaybasehospitalexpansion@health.qld.gov.au