15 August 2024

The NSW Government has reached a new milestone with the unveiling of the first designs for the new Maitland Mental Health Rehabilitation facility, marking a significant step forward in the project’s development.

Co-located on the Maitland Hospital campus in Metford, the facility will provide a new location for some of the services currently operating out of Morisset Hospital, including rehabilitation and forensic mental health services.

The integration of these services on the Maitland Hospital campus supports a transitional model of mental health care, emphasising a holistic, rehabilitation-focused approach.

The concept design maps out the location of services within the building and highlights key connections with surrounding structures, travel routes and the natural environment.

The early designs outline:

a front of house area, including the main entry and reception

staff work areas, including offices and amenities

three inpatient wards with living and dining areas, as well as indoor and outdoor activity and therapy spaces

integration of the building into the surrounding landscape including a range of walking paths that offer opportunities for staff, consumers and visitors to connect with nature.

The community is encouraged to learn more about the new facility and provide their feedback at two drop-in sessions at the Maitland Hospital main foyer on Wednesday, 21 August at 10.00am-12.00pm and 3.00pm-5.00pm.

The community can provide feedback on the concept designs by completing a short online survey, available on the project website until Friday, 30 August.

The new Maitland Mental Health Rehabilitation facility is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $700 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program; an initiative designed to support mental health care reform across the state.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson:

“The design of the facility has been a collaborative process with input from a broad range of stakeholders, including Hunter New England Local Health District mental health service staff, clinicians and most importantly, people with lived experience of mental health.

“Aboriginal community consultation in partnership with Mindaribba Local Aboriginal Land Council has also provided feedback on important cultural considerations that will ensure the new facility is a safe and welcoming space for all members of our community.

“Our top priority is to deliver the highest quality care for those seeking mental health support. We are modernising and enhancing mental health facilities to better serve consumers and the broader community.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison:

“Maitland has long needed modern facilities and services to help people with mental health challenges.

“I am pleased the Maitland community will have an opportunity to provide input into how these services and facilities will be established and operate.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to all the incredible advocates for mental health who have stood with me to advocate for better services for our community.”

Quotes attributable to Dr Anand Swamy, Executive Director for Hunter New England Mental Health Services:

“The new facility will support the delivery of best-practice care in a contemporary, residential style environment that is appropriate for the needs of consumers and best supports their recovery and journey back into the community.”