Major remediation works at the Calvary Mater Hospital will begin shortly, with the NSW Government intervening following repeated delays by the hospital’s facilities management provider, Novacare. Non‑compliant cladding on the building’s exterior has been identified as a safety risk and a contributor to water leaks in parts of the hospital.
NSW Health issued multiple breach notices to Novacare over the required repairs, but says ongoing commercial discussions failed to produce an acceptable agreement or timeline. The department has now taken over responsibility for the cladding project and is working directly with a building contractor.
Scaffolding and hoarding have already been installed at the Platt Street end of the South Block, with rectification work set to begin as soon as possible. NSW Health says it will work closely with Calvary Mater Newcastle to manage risks and minimise disruption to staff, patients and visitors during the construction period.
Separately, pest control problems at the hospital have now been resolved after the 16-bed haematology ward was closed two weeks ago due to maggots. Improvement works on the heating, ventilation and air‑conditioning system began on 14 January, and discussions with Novacare continue regarding long‑term mould remediation.
The State Government says it remains committed to ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of the Calvary Mater Newcastle and will continue to support timely remediation across the site.
“The safety and wellbeing of patients and staff is our highest priority,” said Minister for Health Ryan Park.
“I understand the community’s frustration and their desire for action. I want to reassure the community we are taking action to resolve these issues at Calvary Mater Newcastle as quickly as possible.
“Novacare is responsible for the maintenance of the facility, but they have been too slow in planning and progressing the necessary remediation works so the hospital can return to providing care without disruption.
“Unfortunately, we are dealing with a complex contractual arrangement, but we are continuing to examine the contract carefully to determine how we can more strongly compel these private operators to meet their obligations.”
