The New South Wales (NSW) state government in Australia has appointed a project team for the A$265m ($168.6m) upgrade of the Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

Turner & Townsend has been chosen as the project manager, with Altus selected as the cost manager after a competitive tender process.

Port Macquarie Labor spokesperson Cameron Murphy MLC said: “The upgrade of Port Macquarie Base will provide a boost to the local economy, expected to support almost 500 direct jobs with the potential to support thousands of indirect jobs throughout the life of the project.”

“There will be many opportunities for the community and staff to be involved throughout the planning of the redevelopment to help shape the upgrade of their local hospital.” 

The Port Macquarie Base Hospital Infrastructure Upgrade will focus on essential enhancements, including the mechanical systems of the existing hospital building and the expansion of the site's emergency and maternity departments.

The project's scope will be finalised during the planning and design stage, with construction timeframes set to be confirmed upon engaging a builder.

This upgrade comes in addition to the A$33.97m Helipad and Car Park Project at the hospital, which has recently delivered more than 180 additional parking spaces and a new rooftop helipad, significantly improving emergency healthcare access for patients.

Additionally, the NSW Government is enhancing the Sturt Highway in Wagga Wagga with an A$13.9m upgrade.

Starting 4 March 2025, this upgrade will reconstruct a 1.8km section of the highway, including a new road surface, widened lanes, and dedicated turning lanes, aiming to reduce road damage and provide a safer and more comfortable journey.

Cyclists will benefit from new shoulders on both sides of the highway.

Earlier this month, pier and piling work began on four of the six bridges in the Singleton Bypass project in Australia. The project is funded jointly by the Australian and NSW governments.