Construction of Royal Darwin Hospital’s new 32-bed ward complete

8 June 2026

• Construction of the new 32 bed ward at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) is now complete and the commissioning phase is underway.
• The new $23.95 million ward increases the number of beds available at RDH helping to improve patient flow and ease capacity pressures.
• The new facility has been designed as a multipurpose ward to care for bariatric, renal and general medical patients.

The Finocchiaro CLP Government is focused on delivering better frontline healthcare with construction of the new $23.95 million 32 bed ward at Royal Darwin Hospital now complete and undergoing commissioning ahead of opening.

The new facility has been designed as a multipurpose ward to care for bariatric, renal and general medical patients, and has been designed and built in accordance with the Australasian Health Facility Guidelines.

Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said his department worked closely with NT Health and Northern Territory contractor, Aspire Design and Construct, to deliver this much-needed facility.

“This quality ward has been completed within budget and supported 130 jobs during construction, as part of our Government’s commitment to getting projects out the door,” Mr Yan said.

Minister for Health Steve Edgington said the CLP Government was investing in more beds to ease pressure and improve care for Territorians.

“As part of our year of growth, certainty and security, the CLP Government is delivering better health infrastructure for Territorians, with construction of the 32 bed ward complete, with clinical commissioning underway, Mr Edgington said.

“Improving health services and bringing on more capacity is an important part of restoring our lifestyle and our plan to make the Territory the best place to live, work and invest.” 

Jim Eadie, Aspire Design and Construct Managing Director said, “Aspire is proud to support the ongoing health of Territorians with this new 32-bed ward. Designed as a multi-purpose facility, it will serve the community for years to come—an invaluable investment for future generations.

“This ward strengthens the Territory’s health system by providing greater flexibility and long-term sustainability.”

The CLP Government provided additional funding in the health budget this year of $18.3m to open and operate the new 32 bed ward.

The new 32 bed ward is connected to the main RDH tower by a link bridge, allowing patients and staff to move easily between the two buildings.

The new ward is located at the front of RDH’s main carpark next to the café. The building is elevated, allowing for a two-level undercover car park.

As previously announced, construction of the new Mental Health Inpatient Unit (MHIU) at RDH is nearing completion, with the internal fit out underway and connections to the existing RDH building and adjacent Cowdy Ward Building being constructed.  

The MHIU will improve acute mental health service capacity in the Top End. The new facility will provide 24 inpatient beds, support services and a six bed Stabilisation Assessment and Referral Area, and support services. 

Media Contact:  Jason McIntosh - 0492 166 281 (Yan), Russel Guse – 0488 047 830 ( Edgington)

Jim Eadie, Aspire Design and Construct Managing Director, Assistant Minister for Health Oly Carlson, Minister for Health Steve Edgington, RDH ED Sara Watson, Member for Casuarina Khoda Patel, and Hospital Resource Coordinator Rebecca Pilkington at the new 32 bed ward at RDH.