Local MP, Gareth Ward, is continuing his quest to keep the sale of David Berry Hospital in public hands, calling on NSW Health Minister Ryan Park to release the results of a recent community survey of which many Kiama residents took part. 

The survey, which concluded on Monday 21 October, has been accused of bias by Ward. 

“This survey was skewed, and many members of the community felt that the government guided the questions in order to get the answers they wanted. In spite of those thoughts, our community wants to see the results and I call on the Minister for Health to release them,” Mr Ward said.

Another point of concern for Mr Ward is the original intention of the donation by The Berry family, which, from the survey questions, is seemingly being ignored.

“Of particular concern is that one of the survey options is to turn the David Berry Hospital site into social and affordable housing. The Berry family gifted this land as a health facility, and I would be strongly opposed to closing the hospital and turning the site into housing,” said Ward.

Mr Ward sent a letter to Mr Park calling for the release of these results and invited him to support his bill.  “I am keen to work with your office on the future operations of David Berry Hospital and to reflect the community’s views on these matters.

“I note that you have previously committed to take up my request by amend(ing) the David Berry Hospital Act to prevent any future government from selling the site.

“I would like to request further information on your proposed bill or I invite you to support my bill which will preserve the Berry family’s bequest in perpetuity,” wrote Ward.

However, the promised bill is yet to be seen. 

“I don’t trust this government when it comes to David Berry Hospital. Whilst they have promised to introduce a bill to rule out its sale, we are still yet to see the promised bill come before Parliament.

“I have a bill before the house to do exactly that and I call on Labor to match the pledge by the Coalition to back the bill,” said Mr Ward.

Since these comments from Mr Ward, the results have come in. The survey was conducted by the NSW government and received almost 1,200 responses. 

Survey results highlighted key themes. Most respondents valued the role of David Berry Hospital in community healthcare, expressed a desire for continued health and wellness services, and supported partnerships with community organisations.

Many favoured mixed-use developments that balance public and community needs while preserving heritage, green spaces, and natural environments. Over 650 respondents contributed additional suggestions and feedback, and more than 600 registered for updates and future consultation sessions.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “I would like to thank the local community and other interested parties for taking the time to answer questions, share their suggestions, stories, and feedback. It is great to see so many people engaged in this first phase of the consultation process.”

The NSW Government will update the David Berry Hospital Act 1906 to clarify its use of the site. This legislative process will take time and will require further consultation on the amendments to the Act.