Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick has entered a new phase with the official opening of a major redevelopment that expands emergency care, boosts cancer treatment and research, and adds new specialist services for children across New South Wales.
The $658 million Stage 1 redevelopment, delivered by the Minns Labor Government with $100 million from the Albanese Government, centres on a larger emergency department designed to handle increasingly complex cases while offering greater privacy for patients and their families. The emergency department is positioned alongside critical care, imaging and specialist teams, allowing faster coordination when children present with urgent or complicated conditions.
Hospital leaders say the design reflects how paediatric care has evolved. More children are arriving with multiple health needs, and clinicians often require immediate access to diagnostics and intensive support. The expanded layout aims to reduce transfers within the hospital and create calmer spaces during what can be distressing moments for families.
Beyond emergency care, the redevelopment introduces an enhanced children’s intensive care unit and a new medical short stay unit to manage patients who require observation but not long admissions. New inpatient wards cover medical, surgical and sleep study services. Oncology services have been strengthened through a day oncology centre, inpatient oncology units and a dedicated bone marrow transplant unit.
A children’s hospital pharmacy has opened within the building, and laboratories run by the Children’s Cancer Institute are now co-located on site to support the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre. The centre brings research and treatment together under one roof, with the aim of accelerating access to clinical trials and emerging therapies for childhood cancer.
Neurological care has also been expanded through a new Neuroscience Ambulatory and Research Centre, providing specialist services for children with epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders and other complex conditions. Education, training and clinical simulation facilities form part of the redevelopment, reflecting the hospital’s role in preparing the next generation of clinicians.
Families will notice changes beyond the clinical areas. The new building includes private single bedrooms with space for a parent or carer to stay overnight. There are redesigned communal areas where families can rest, prepare meals or spend time away from treatment zones. A 24 hour virtual care hub, known as KidsHQ, connects families across the state with health professionals from home, reducing the need for some in-person visits.
The Randwick project forms part of a broader $1.5 billion investment in the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct, which brings together health, education and research partners. Philanthropic contributions through the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation played a role in supporting the development.
Premier Chris Minns described the opening as a major milestone for children’s healthcare in the state, noting that thousands of young patients are expected to be treated in the new facilities each year. Health Minister Ryan Park said families would see the difference as soon as they enter the building, pointing to improved flow, upgraded wards and expanded specialist services.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre would strengthen paediatric cancer care by combining treatment and research. Federal Member for Kingsford-Smith Matt Thistlethwaite said the redevelopment ensures families in the eastern suburbs can access advanced care close to home. State Member for Coogee Marjorie O’Neill thanked staff and families who contributed to shaping the project, saying the upgraded facilities match the skill of the clinicians who work there.
The Randwick redevelopment comes alongside the $659.1 million Stage 2 redevelopment at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, where a new 14-storey building with dedicated paediatric and neonatal intensive care units has recently been completed. Together, the projects form part of the NSW Government’s plan to deliver 32 new and upgraded hospitals and more than 2,500 additional beds and treatment places across the state.
Supporters argue the scale of investment reflects population growth and rising demand for specialised paediatric services. Critics of large capital programmes often question long-term operating costs and staffing pressures across the health system. The government has pointed to the recruitment of more than 720 full time equivalent nurses in emergency departments statewide as part of its Safe Staffing Levels rollout.
For families arriving at Randwick in coming weeks, the changes will be more immediate. Larger clinical spaces, closer coordination between departments and more private rooms are likely to shape their experience first. The longer term impact, particularly in cancer research and neurological care, will be measured over years as outcomes and access continue to evolve.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
