Construction begins on 40 additional mental health beds at Fremantle Hospital
Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson, Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk and Premier Roger Cook tour the redevelopment works at Fremantle Hospital's V block.
Construction has started on 40 additional mental health beds at Fremantle Hospital to expand treatment and support options for patients in the southern corridor.
Premier Roger Cook, Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson and Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk announced the commencement of works and toured the site on 9 January 2024.
It’s a significant project for the South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) with Fremantle Hospital's V block undergoing extensive works, which will result in:
- 20 secure beds;
- 10 beds for open adults;
- 10-bed neurological behaviour unit for older adults;
- 24-hour mental health urgent care service; and
- a new neurostimulation unit.
The $63 million redevelopment will increase the number of inpatient mental health beds at Fremantle Hospital by more than 60 per cent – from 64 to 104.
This important project will also see the introduction of a 24-hour mental health urgent care service – an expansion on the existing triage service which is open from 8am to 10pm.
The 24-hour service will help take pressure off Fiona Stanley Hospital's busy emergency department, while ensuring acute mental health patients receive dedicated crisis care.
SMHS Chief Executive Paul Forden said the design uses contemporary therapeutic principles such as natural light, landscaped outdoor courtyards and balcony spaces to create a better experience for patients and staff.
“The redeveloped building will feature wards comprising single, swipe-controlled bedrooms with ensuites and TVs, treatment rooms, sensory modulation rooms, and separate dining and lounge room spaces,” he said.
“The model of care will promote and encourage staff and patient interaction, with collaboration hubs available throughout the wards.”
