Mental health services set to be expanded at Rockingham General Hospital with tender period opened

Rockingham residents can expect to see expanded mental health care services with construction expected to begin this year on two new facilities at the local hospital. The State Government has opened the tender process for a new emergency centre and behavioural assessment unit at Rockingham General Hospital. The purpose-built spaces will support patients with mental health conditions. The mental health emergency centre will include a short-stay inpatient unit, with periods of care of up to 72 hours. While the behavioural assessment unit will include two dedicated patient bays with access to specialised staff, supporting early intervention and de-escalation. The facility has been co-designed with stakeholders and consumers and both services are expected to improve patient flow and ensure people receive specialist and timely mental health care, in an appropriate setting. The project should provide a significant capacity boost for mental health services across the southern suburbs. The tender closes on May 28 with construction expected to commence this year. Health Infrastructure Minister John Carey said the tender represents an important investment in health infrastructure. “The new Rockingham facility has been carefully planned to improve patient flow, enhance safety for patients and staff, and support more effective care delivery within the hospital precinct,” Mr Carey said. “These works will strengthen Rockingham General Hospital’s capability to respond to complex mental health presentations now and into the future.” Health Minister Meredith Hammat said it would enable people with mental health concerns to receive timely access to specialist care in a therapeutic setting. “By creating purpose-built spaces designed specifically for mental health assessment and short-stay care, we can support better outcomes for patients while easing pressure on the emergency department,” Ms Hammat added. “This project is about ensuring people receive the care they need, when they need it.” Rockingham MLA Magenta Marshall said the project would make a real difference for people seeking urgent mental health care. “This new Mental Health Emergency Centre will ensure individuals in crisis receive safe, timely, and specialised care when it is needed most,” Ms Marshall said. “I’m proud to see this commitment advancing, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on individuals, families, and frontline staff across our region.” Progress on the mental health centre delivers on an election promise made by the Cook Government at the last election.