$70,000 upgrade to increase seating space at emergency department

Following on from The Courier’s update regarding entry arrangements at the Narrabri Hospital emergency department, due to upgrade works, NSW Health has published further information regarding the project.

The $70,000 upgrade will increase seating capacity from six to around 20 chairs by reconfiguring the existing layout and will help cater for the more than 550 patients requiring emergency care at the Narrabri emergency department each month.

The planned works will also include new paint and new vinyl flooring to create a more welcoming and functional space for patients and healthcare staff, the update read.

To ensure patient safety during construction, temporary access to the emergency department will be through the ambulance bay entrance door.

Nursing staff will meet patients and families on entry to complete triage and direct them to the alternative waiting room. Clear signage will also be available to help guide patients through the process.

The state’s Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park, said the practical and important upgrades will make a real difference to the experiences of both patients and staff at Narrabri Hospital.

“An expanded ED waiting room will better reflect the volume of patients coming through the door and greatly improve the comfort and flow,” Mr Park said in a statement released last week.

“The project is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”

The upgrade works have been welcomed by Member for Barwon Roy Butler who said he looked forward to seeing more investment in the local health system.

“Narrabri is a growing community, with growing medical needs, and it is good to see the government investing in an expansion of the ED at Narrabri Hospital,” Mr Butler said.

“The increased seating, aesthetic improvements and better signage, will help to make things run more smoothly and better accommodate patients.”

Construction is expected to be complete in late May 2026.