Camden Council is urging the State and Federal Governments to take the next critical step in healthcare investment for Camden area residents – committing to retain and redevelop Camden Hospital to meet the urgent and growing needs of the local community.

The call comes as the Federal Labor Government yesterday made an election promise of $80 million to upgrade Fairfield Hospital’s emergency department – a welcome move, but one that further highlights the widening healthcare gap in one of Australia’s fastest growing Local Government Areas.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said while Council welcomed recent progress by the NSW Government on planning for a new hospital in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, this must be complemented by renewed investment in Camden Hospital itself.

“Camden Hospital plays a vital role in our community – but its services are limited and its future uncertain,” Cr Cagney said.

“If Fairfield Hospital can receive $80 million, why do our residents continue to be forced to travel to Campbelltown or Liverpool for their healthcare needs?”

Camden Council’s The Time Is Now campaign has been calling on the State and Federal Governments to:

• Retain and redevelop Camden Hospital, expanding its capacity and enhancing its role in delivering palliative, allied and specialised care;
• Deliver a new major public hospital between Oran Park and the Western Sydney International Airport – with the NSW Government announcing recently plans for a future hospital in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis; and
• Fund co-located integrated health hubs in Oran Park and Leppington town centres.

“Our population is booming, and our healthcare system needs to catch up,” Cr Cagney said.

“The longer it takes to upgrade Camden Hospital, the more pressure we place on patients, families and frontline staff.”

Cr Cagney said community feedback continues to reinforce the need for immediate action.

“Residents, health professionals and community groups are all saying the same thing – Camden Hospital must be part of the solution,” she said.

“The election promise for Fairfield is great news for its residents. Now we need that same energy and commitment for Camden.”

To find out more about The Time Is Now, visit www.camden.nsw.gov.au/advocacy.