The future of David Berry hospital has a new update with Minister for Illawarra & South Coast Ryan Park confirming on August 7 that the NSW government will consult with the local community on the future of the site.

Berry confirmed that the consultation will take place in September 2024 and that the consultation will include local residents, the Aboriginal community, environmental groups as well as other interested parties. 

In June 2022 the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District Board determined that health services provided at the 118-year-old hospital could be more appropriately and effectively delivered in the modern settings at the $438 million redeveloped Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital, which is due for completion in late 2026.

“This 118-year-old hospital may no longer be fit for its original purpose, but I am determined to see it maintained for the benefit of the public and the local community,” said Park in a media release.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward presented a bill in parliament back in June to amend the David Berry Hospital Act of 1906 to prohibit the sale or disposal of the hospital lands and he considers this update from Park as a win for the local community.

In question time at a legislative meeting on August 7, Ward thanked the NSW Opposition and his independent colleagues while ensuring he would keep pushing for his bill amendment.

“Whilst it’s taken them a while to listen, I welcome the Minister’s commitment following our community campaign to secure the future of David Berry Hospital which was gifted to our community,” said Mr Ward.

“I note the Minister has indicated that ‘community consultation’ will occur on the future of the site but I will continue to pursue my private members bill to amend the David Berry Hospital Act to ensure no future government can sell this site,” said Mr Ward.

In Ryan Park’s media release he confirmed that the NSW Government would be working on amending the David Berry Act 1906 in due course to adequately reflect the community’s vision for the future use of the site.