Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM has sincerely thanked the Minns State Government, NSW Health Minister Ryan Park, Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and State Member Phil Donato for their ongoing support to have the $20.2 million Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment included in the 2025/26 State Budget.
Speaking from the Australian National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra today, Mayor Miller warmly welcomed the budget announcement.
“This is a significant investment in healthcare for our region and marks a significant milestone that will enhance the medical facilities and services available to residents of Forbes and the surrounding region.
“The new hospital theatre will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and designed to meet the highest standards of modern medical care. It will significantly expand the hospital's capacity to perform a wide range of surgical procedures, reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes,” Mayor Miller added.
A new operating suite for Forbes District Hospital will mean we can continue to offer minor day surgeries, ENT, other specialities, as well as obstetrics as the primary birthing unit in the Lachlan Health District.
“A new operating suite will help reduce the demand in Orange, Dubbo, Bathurst and other hospitals in the region, as Forbes District Hospital often assists with overflow cases from the Base Hospitals," Mayor Miller said.
Forbes Shire Council has a long history of supporting NSW Health to improve accessibility to health services. The Council has developed several initiatives, including housing, to address barriers to long-term sustainable health services for our community.
Forbes District Hospital is dedicated to delivering comprehensive healthcare services to the Forbes community and surrounding regions with a focus on patient-centred care. The hospital strives to meet the evolving needs of its patients through continuous improvement and innovation.
Demand for surgery at Forbes had grown from 621 cases in 2023/23 to 771 cases in 2023/24.