The North West Hospital and Health Service (North West HHS) is excited to announce the successful completion of its staff accommodation refurbishment at Mount Isa Hospital, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve rural and remote healthcare services in the region.

 

The refurbishment project was completed on 21 February 2025 and has transformed the staff accommodation in Mount Isa into a modern, comfortable, and inviting space for the dedicated healthcare professionals working in the area.

 

With 56 rooms across 2 accommodation blocks, the upgrades include private rooms with ensuites, communal areas, laundry facilities, storage spaces, and the introduction of a gym to promote staff wellbeing.

 

Additionally, accommodation upgrades at Camooweal and Dajarra, aimed at enhancing healthcare infrastructure in remote communities, have added extra capacity, with 7 new rooms in Camooweal and 4 additional rooms in Dajarra, further expanding the accommodation options for healthcare workers in the region.

 

These additions will provide more flexibility for staff and help address the growing demand for housing in remote healthcare settings.

 

Health Service Chief Executive, Sean Birgan, shared his enthusiasm about the accommodation upgrades, highlighting its importance in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals in remote areas.

 

“Our healthcare workers are essential to the communities they serve, and providing them with a safe, modern place to live is crucial for their wellbeing and professional satisfaction,” Mr Birgan said.

 

“We’re seeing an influx of young professionals moving to rural areas, and this upgraded accommodation will ensure they have the comfort and support they need to thrive both at work and in their personal time.”

 

These upgrades reflect North West HHS’s commitment to fostering a positive work environment and prioritising the health and wellbeing of its staff and forms part of a broader vision to modernise healthcare amenities across the North West.

 

“We are committed to improving not only the healthcare facilities but also the living standards of those who dedicate their careers to providing vital healthcare services in rural and remote communities,” Mr Birgan said.

 

“This investment in our staff is an investment in the future of healthcare in North West Queensland.”

 

Scott Lithgow, Director of Facilities Management, commented, “These refurbished staff accommodation facilities, with the added capacity in Camooweal and Dajarra, will have a positive impact on the daily lives of our healthcare professionals.”

 

“By providing them with a modern and comfortable place to stay, we are supporting their overall wellbeing and ensuring they can continue delivering high-quality care to our communities.”

 

The refurbishment and upgraded accommodation at Camooweal and Dajarra are part of the $1 billion Building Rural and Remote Healthcare Program, which continues to reshape the landscape of healthcare infrastructure across the region.