Major Health Precinct Transformation Planned for Wollongong
The NSW Department of Planning and Environment has unveiled ambitious plans to transform Wollongong’s health services into a nationally significant health precinct, according to a recently released strategy discussion paper.
Centered around the Wollongong Public Hospital and extending to surrounding areas, the proposed health precinct aims to address growing regional healthcare demands while revitalizing the district as an integrated hub for health services, research, education, and community connection.
Meeting Regional Healthcare Needs
The proposal comes in response to increasing healthcare demands in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region, which is projected to grow by approximately 130,000 people (32%) by 2041, with one in four residents expected to be 65 or older.
“Demand for health services in the region is increasing due to a growing and ageing population,” states the discussion paper. “Wollongong Public Hospital requires upgrades to meet community needs.”
The region’s hospitals currently handle significant patient loads, with Wollongong Public Hospital alone recording 73,000 emergency presentations and 43,000 inpatient admissions annually. By 2031, authorities expect an additional 25,000 hospital admissions and 39,000 emergency department visits across the region.
Beyond Hospital Upgrades
The strategy represents more than just hospital infrastructure improvements. It envisions a comprehensive place-based approach that would enhance the entire precinct through improved public spaces, transportation connections, diverse housing options, and business investment incentives.
“Improving the amenity and activation of the Health Precinct, delivering new and enhanced green spaces, strengthening links to Wollongong Train Station and CBD, and incentivizing new housing choices would multiply the health, social and economic benefits,” notes the document.
Seven Key Directions
The plan outlines seven early directions for the precinct’s future development:
- Creating a patient-centered health precinct delivering world-class care
- Developing well-connected and people-friendly environments
- Establishing lively, attractive places for everyone
- Building a distinct and welcoming public domain
- Fostering partnerships between business, research, and education
- Ensuring resilience and adaptability for future needs
- Providing diverse housing options, including affordable options for healthcare workers
Economic and Employment Benefits
The health precinct already contributes significantly to the local economy, generating over $900 million in economic output with approximately 4,000 health sector jobs, including almost 3,000 at Wollongong Public Hospital alone.
David Armstrong, Director of Regional Planning at the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, emphasized the transformative potential of the project.
“This isn’t just about upgrading a hospital—it’s about creating a vibrant, connected precinct that fosters innovation in healthcare while providing economic opportunities and enhancing livability for the entire community,” Armstrong said.
Acknowledgment of Country
The strategy includes a strong commitment to acknowledging the precinct as Dharawal Country and incorporating Aboriginal perspectives and knowledge into the planning process.
“We commit to helping to support the health and wellbeing of Country by valuing, respecting, and being guided by Aboriginal people, who know that if we care for Country – it will care for us,” states the discussion paper.
Public Involvement
The Department is currently seeking public input to refine the strategy’s core principles and directions. Community workshops are scheduled for the coming months, with the final strategy expected to be completed by early 2025.
Residents, workers, and visitors are encouraged to share their vision for the precinct at community workshops or via the Department’s website.
The full discussion paper is available at the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website, with public feedback accepted until 5pm Wednesday 11 June 2025.
