The Albanese Government is working with the New South Wales Government to ensure expectant mothers and their babies on the Central Coast continue to have access to essential maternity services.

The Albanese Government will provide $10 million to the NSW Government so public hospitals can manage the expected increase in demand for maternity services following Healthe Care’s decision to stop providing the only private maternity services in the region at Gosford Private Hospital.

The funding will support upgrades to improve maternity services at Central Coast Hospitals (Gosford and Wyong), along with workforce support and training.

It will ensure Central Coast mothers get the local care they need at this important time in their lives.

The demand for maternity services on the Central Coast is significant and sustained.

This funding will improve both capacity and capability of the local hospitals to provide such services.
 
It is incumbent on private health insurers and private hospitals to come together to find solutions to these issues in the interests of patients.

In the meantime, Gosford public hospital offers world class maternity facilities and the same high-quality care based on clinical need.

Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:

“The Albanese Government has heard the concerns of the Central Coast community and is taking immediate action before the private maternity services close at the end of March.

“Our funding will restore certainty and support for women and their babies at this crucial time, making it easier for them to get the local care they need without having to leave their community.

Quotes attributable to Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

“The Minns Labor Government welcomes this contribution to maternity services up and down the central coast.

“We know the closure of private maternity services will add pressure on our public system, and these additional funds will support our efforts to ensure women, and their families have access to safe, high quality maternity care.”

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride, Member for Dobell:

“I worked at Wyong Hospital for a decade and know how important access to quality healthcare services are for our growing community.

“This funding demonstrates the Federal Labor Government’s commitment to making sure women and families on the Central Coast have maternity services close to home.”

Quotes attributable to Dr Gordon Reid, Member for Robertson:

"It is absolutely critical that women have access to maternity services here on the Central Coast.

“As the local Federal Member and a practising doctor, I understand the importance of maternity services to both the mother and baby.

“This funding announcement shows the Federal Government is listening to the concerns of women across the Central Coast.

“Women in our region deserve and should expect world class maternity care, close to where they live".

ENDS

Tuesday, 4 March 2025