Budget 2023 – Investing in Our Future. Delivering for all Territorians - Greater Health Services across the Territory

24 April 2023

The Territory Labor Government is supporting health services across the Territory with $2 billion allocated in Budget 2023 to support core service delivery and enhance health-related infrastructure.

The Royal Darwin Hospital precinct will undergo redevelopment, receiving a $25 million, 32-bed multi-purpose ward which will enable rapid deployment of additional beds to provide increased health service capacity to Territorians in the shortest possible time.

RDH will also receive a new Forensic Mortuary, Pathology and Bereavement Facility, which will provide a modern fit-for-purpose facility that will allow autopsies and pathology work to be completed to a contemporary standard of practice. A culturally appropriate bereavement facility will also be established to provide the ability for loved ones going through the grieving process to identify and view bodies in a dignified and private manner.

Planning for the future of health services and capacity in across the Territory will receive a $1 million boost with opportunities to reimagine, plan and implement a vision for the future use of major NT Health facilities and hospitals, to deliver contemporary health care to Territorians in a sustainable manner.

More health and treatment options on country is front and centre in Budget 2023 with Gunbalanya set to receive a $20 million health centre and morgue facility, fitted with consulting rooms, emergency bays and renal facilities.

Alice Springs, Katherine, Gove and Royal Darwin Hospitals will receive a share of $37.3 million to upgrade their central sterilisation services. Gove District Hospital will also receive $20 million fire safety system upgrades.

Supporting our health staff with new machinery will receive a $9 million boost in Budget 2023, allocated over three years. Major capital equipment investment is required to replace aging medical equipment such as; high-end ultrasound scanners, CT scanners, single-photo emission computer tomography scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hybrid imaging technologies.

Quotes attributed to Chief Minister and Minister for Health Natasha Fyles:

“Budget 2023 is about delivering for all Territorians. No matter where you live in the Territory – the bush or city – you deserve access to quality health care.

“This sets up our health system post Covid and for the future. This is a significant investment in health – and of the biggest since the Palmerston Regional Hospital was delivered.

“New and improved upgraded machinery will support our hardworking health staff and make sure Territorians can get healthcare closer to home. 

“RDH will receive 32 extra beds, as well as a share of $37.3 million with Alice Springs, Gove and Katherine hospitals for upgrades to their sterilisation centres.”

Northern Territory Government