Royal Darwin Hospital adds 32-bed multi-purpose ward to ease staffing strain

Royal Darwin Hospital has welcomed its first patients to a newly built, $23.95 million multi-purpose ward known as Ward 1C, which provides 32 beds for a range of medical needs. Minister Steve Edgington reported that 13 patients are currently being treated and that the full complement of beds will be ready by the end of the month, alongside a planned 24-bed mental-health unit. The ward’s adaptable design supports cardiac monitoring, isolation, bariatric accommodation and care for patients with cognitive impairment.

Its launch comes after six code-yellow emergencies have been declared at the Darwin and Palmerston hospitals since January, with the most severe lasting weeks in July-August. Acting NT Health chief executive Susan Bowden recently enlisted over 30 qualified staff to alleviate exhausted frontline workers. Federal funding of $10 million for maternity-ward upgrades was also announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, though the NT government’s original $35 million request was reduced.