Construction has officially commenced on the New Mandurah Hospital, a $950.6 million project delivered by the West Australian government, following the award of the main works contract.
The contract has been awarded to Built and Sacyr Construction Australia.
The hospital will be built on vacant land adjacent to the existing Peel Health Campus and will significantly expand health care capacity for people living in Mandurah and across the wider Peel region.
Once complete, the hospital will deliver more beds, strengthen local health services, and allow more people to access care closer to home.
All services currently provided at the existing hospital will be replaced with modern, purpose-built facilities, while the overall capacity of the public health system in the area is significantly increased.
The new facility will include an emergency department, a Mental Health Emergency Centre, chemotherapy services, and renal, perioperative, birthing and women’s ward and palliative care facilities.
More than 110 beds will be added to the WA health system as part of the project, including capacity within the dedicated Mental Health Emergency Centre, which will provide specialised support for people experiencing acute mental health conditions.
A larger emergency department, with more treatment bays and expanded short stay capacity, is also expected to support faster and more responsive care for patients.
Forward works are already underway at the site, including utility services, enabling earthworks and additional staff parking.
The award of the main works contract represents the next major step in the project’s delivery.
The New Mandurah Hospital forms part of the state government’s record $5.5 billion investment in health infrastructure across Western Australia.
It follows the recent opening of the Peel Community Mental Health Service and the Kara Maar Specialist Community Eating Disorder Service in Greenfields, which offer consulting suites and therapy spaces for community mental health support.
Premier Roger Cook said the project reflected the government’s broader commitment to expanding health care access across the state.
“The New Mandurah Hospital is a major investment in the future of the Peel region, delivering more beds, expanded services, and better access to health care closer to home,” said Cook.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the project would help reduce the need for Peel region residents to travel to Perth for treatment.
“We’re putting WA first by delivering a brand new hospital and expanding the range of services available in Mandurah,” said Hammat.
Health Infrastructure Minister John Carey pointed to the project as part of a broader pattern of investment in the Peel region, noting the government’s role in building the Mandurah rail line, returning the Peel Health Campus to public ownership, and progressing the Mandurah Common Ground project.
Dawesville MLA Lisa Munday, a former paramedic, said the investment would support both patients and health care workers, while Mandurah MLA Rhys Williams said the new hospital would meet the needs of the region’s growing population for generations to come.
The New Mandurah Hospital is expected to modernise health services in the Peel region while significantly expanding the range and scale of care available locally.
 acknowledges the government’s recently announced $10 billion housing fund initiative to construct 30,000 new homes in the next five years as a positive initial step in addressing the immediate housing needs of Australia. However, this vision needs to encompass not just housing, but the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure to effectively support population growth. *The Intergenerational Report 2023*, recently released by the Treasurer of Australia, echoes this necessity, outlining the critical role of infrastructure in supporting socio-economic development and enabling economic and productivity growth. It highlights the continued and increasing investment in infrastructure to help reduce congestion and ensure the smooth, efficient movement of goods and people nationally and internationally. These measures are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, providing access to employment, healthcare, education, and community activities. CJC Management believes that true, sustainable growth requires a far-reaching, holistic approach. While appreciative of the government's focus on housing, the company recognises that extensive and collaborative efforts are needed beyond this sector. CJC Management Group Managing Director Colin Calder said: “The $10 billion housing fund and the Federal Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure expenditure give us a framework upon which we can construct a strong and resilient infrastructure for Australia. As the report suggests, a strategic review of the Infrastructure Investment Program and enhanced planning and coordination with states and territories are essential to improve the quality and sustainability of long-term infrastructure spending.” The Australian engineering and construction industry is changing, especially in regards to the management of project delivery risks. Calder believes that to adapt to this changing landscape, “Organisations will need to establish robust governance, incorporate thorough risk management practices, and employ advanced digital systems for accurate reporting and forecasting. Early engagement with contractors and the adoption of adaptable, performance-incentivised delivery models will be crucial for navigating this emerging industry scenario efficiently.” The construction industry continues to face numerous challenges, including escalated material costs, labour issues, and supply chain disruptions, which are contributing to poor project performance. According to KPMG, with only half of the projects being completed on time, contractors worldwide including in Australia, are under significant pressure. Despite these obstacles, there’s a substantial opportunity for improvement in the sector. Organisations handling major projects should prioritise proper delivery and procurement models, precise cost estimates, and realistic schedules. Emphasis should also be on comprehensive risk management, cost analysis, fair risk distribution, efficient project management offices, solid governance, integrated project controls, and utilising data analytics and technology to boost project performance and productivity. A growing trend is evident as the construction industry increasingly adopts diverse technologies including mobile platforms, AI, and robotic process automation. Alongside the notable surge in modular or offsite manufacturing, these advanced technologies and methods are poised to markedly enhance the industry's efficiency and overall performance. Emphasising the importance of advanced tools, the sector is turning its attention towards project management information systems, integrated project controls, building information models, and sophisticated data analytics to amplify return on investment in construction projects. ESG considerations are emerging as a central focus not just in Australia, but globally in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Organisations are actively urging the industry to embrace more environmentally sustainable practices. Calder said: “This push is resulting in a significant shift with industry leaders establishing ambitious targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and pollution and heightening biodiversity awareness.” In addition, there is a marked effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, all factors that are vital for future success. . “We are beginning to witness the industry not just talk about, but also act upon the belief that a diverse workforce is pivotal for enhancing project resilience. There is still a long way to go but, this industry approach effectively tackles disruption, brings fresh skills and perspectives to the forefront, and adeptly handles challenges tied to scheduling, remote working, and job site travel. To ensure continued progress, the industry needs to hold firm in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, investing in training and development, and implementing policies that support a diverse and equitable workplace,” said Calder. As Australia takes steps toward infrastructural improvement, Calder concludes that it is vital for the entire industry to look beyond traditional construction. “The inclusion of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and workforce diversity is essential for the journey ahead. Together with other industry leaders, CJC Management is ready to share insights and collaborate extensively to ensure that our collective infrastructure robustly meets future demands and challenges particularly as our population grows,” said Calder.](https://www.buildaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/shutterstock_1108946396_edited-1000x667-1.jpg)