PATIENTS, carers, and visitors attending Narrabri Hospital Emergency Department will soon benefit from an upgraded and refreshed waiting room, designed to better meet the needs of the growing New England community.

With construction starting this week, the $70,000 upgrade will increase seating capacity from six to around 20 chairs by reconfiguring the existing layout and will help cater for the more than 550 patients requiring emergency care at Narrabri ED each month.

The planned works will also include new paint and new vinyl flooring to create a more welcoming and functional space for patients and healthcare staff.

The ED will remain open throughout the works.

To ensure patient safety during construction, temporary access to the ED will be through the ambulance bay entrance door.

Nursing staff will meet patients and families on entry to complete triage and direct them to the alternative waiting room.

Clear signage will also be available to help guide patients through the process.

Construction is expected to be complete in late May 2026.

NSW Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park said the practical and important upgrades will make a real difference to the experiences of both patients and staff at Narrabri Hospital.

“An expanded ED waiting room will better reflect the volume of patients coming through the door and greatly improve the comfort and flow,” Mr Park said.

“The project is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”

Member for Barwon Roy Butler said Narrabri is a growing community, with growing medical needs. “It is good to see the government investing in an expansion of the ED at Narrabri Hospital,” Mr Butler said.

“The increased seating, aesthetic improvements and better signage, will help to make things run more smoothly and better accommodate patients.

“I look forward to seeing more investment in the local health system.”

Hunter New England Local Health District executive director of infrastructure, planning, and sustainability John Barnard-Richardson said increasing seating capacity and refreshing the space, will improve the experience for patients, carers, and visitors, as well as support staff to continue delivering high‑quality care.

“While construction is underway, temporary access changes will ensure patients continue to be safely assessed and treated,” he said.