In a boost to frontline emergency care within the Hunter Valley, Branxton will soon be home to a new ambulance station.
Modern state-of-the-art facilities are slated for Gateshead, Swansea and Medowie, too, while Stockton and Tea Gardens undergo refurbishments.
The site for the Branxton station – to feature internal parking for ambulances, vehicle wash facilities, employee parking, multipurpose spaces to support staff education and rest, logistics and storage spaces, an office area for administration as well as amenities – will be determined following further planning and consultation with key stakeholders including the community, Cessnock City Council and local emergency services personnel.
Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell said it was a big win for the region.
“We’re committed to ensuring locals continue to receive timely access to emergency care when and where they need it most,” he stated.
“The Branxton station, along with new ones earmarked for Gateshead, Swansea and Medowie, and renovations of Stockton and Tea Gardens, is yet another way the NSW Government is meeting growing the health needs of the Hunter now and into the future.
“The investment will create more jobs in the area and provide a better working environment for our amazing paramedics who are giving their utmost to serve communities across our great state.”
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the announcement formed part of a record $1.76 billion NSW Government outlay, which would transform NSW Ambulance services over the next four years with more than 2,000 extra staff, including 1,858 paramedics, and 30 new stations across NSW.
More than 700 of these positions will be in regional locations.
“Ambulance services are experiencing unprecedented demand,” she said.
“And, this new station for Branxton, along with Gateshead, Swansea and Medowie, will keep us ahead of the curve.”
The NSW Government’s $1 billion investment in NSW Ambulance infrastructure includes:
- NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program ($615.5 million) 30 projects – eight in early planning. Program announced in 2022-23 State Budget
- RAIR program Stage 1 & 2 ($232 million) – 54 projects – 39 complete including the new Rutherford Ambulance Station at Maitland, 15 underway. Program began 2015
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