The Government of New South Wales (NSW) has announced the release of the concept design for Broken Hill’s enhanced mental health facility.

The new Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit will provide a modern, therapeutic space for individuals.

Planned to be constructed on the Broken Hill Base Hospital campus in Thomas Street, the facility will offer care for vulnerable individuals.

The location was considered based on its proximity to other health services, options for future expansion, and impact on hospital operations.

The exterior design features a front entry and a main courtyard, with a focus on creating safe and secure outside spaces.

This facility will be flexible in caring for a range of mental health patients, including the most vulnerable.

Extensive consultation with staff, carers, and the community has informed the design process, ensuring that it meets the needs of Broken Hill and the surrounding areas.

Construction is scheduled to begin early next year, and the redevelopment also includes an upgrade to the hospital's Emergency Department.

Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said: “Safe and secure outside spaces are an important consideration in the design, with the availability of natural light and fresh air, as well as Indigenous influenced landscaping, contributing to a therapeutic and culturally safe environment for all people in our community.

“Internally, the unit will be used flexibly to care for a range of mental health consumers, including the most vulnerable and those with very high needs.”