Construction of a new inpatient supportive and palliative care unit has commenced at Westmead Hospital in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, with its completion anticipated in 2026.

This unit is being delivered as part of the NSW's A$93m ($61.3m) World Class End of Life Care programme.

The new unit will feature 15 en-suite beds and aims to provide specialist care for patients with life-limiting illnesses, particularly those facing complex symptoms or in the later stages of life.

Health professionals and representatives from aboriginal, multicultural, and multi-faith communities have contributed to the unit’s design process.

Situated on the fifth level of the Central Acute Services Building at Westmead Hospital, the unit will provide both private and communal spaces, outdoor access from each room, and a multi-faith room.

The facility is expected to improve supportive and palliative care services within the Western Sydney Local Health District, complementing the neighbouring units at Mount Druitt Hospital and Auburn Hospital.

Health Infrastructure and the Western Sydney Local Health District are delivering the palliative care unit project, with the Interior Construction Group serving as the construction contractor.

Facility upgrades at Tamworth, Nepean, Orange, and Wyong Hospitals are also undertaken under the World Class End of Life Care programme.

NSW health minister Ryan Park said: “We are committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses can access high quality end-of-life care right across NSW. The need for in-hospital supportive and palliative care services continues to grow.

“This is why we have invested A$93m to deliver five purpose-built or refurbished units across the state. At Westmead Hospital, the new supportive and palliative care unit will offer patients and their families a private, comfortable setting where they can access the care and support they need.”