A new masterplan for the $1 billion Cairns Hospital Expansion is set to guide the long-term modernisation of health services in Far North Queensland.
The Queensland Government has unveiled the masterplan for the Cairns Hospital Expansion, outlining a staged roadmap to improve access to healthcare, enhance patient experiences and integrate health, education and research facilities.
The masterplan forms part of the fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan and sets out development priorities for the hospital precinct over the next three decades.
Stage one includes a new Health Innovation and Surgical Centre with at least forty additional beds, a Health Management Hub, a multi-storey staff car park, and a cyclone-rated rooftop helipad on Block D.
Support services, including medical imaging, pathology, pharmacy, sterilisation and kitchen facilities, will also be expanded as part of the first phase.
Construction is expected to commence in late 2026, following land acquisitions and approval of the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation, with stage one scheduled for completion in 2031.
To support the development, Queensland Health will acquire land adjacent to the existing hospital to co-locate new facilities and improve precinct connectivity.
Future stages propose a new acute services building linked to existing facilities, as well as refurbishment, demolition and redevelopment across parts of the hospital precinct.
Queensland Health will prioritise engagement with affected landowners, businesses and community organisations to support continuity of essential services throughout the development process.
State Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Tim Nicholls, said the masterplan provided long-term certainty for healthcare delivery in the region.
“The masterplan for Cairns Hospital sets out a clear roadmap for the next thirty years to ensure Far North Queenslanders have access to high-quality healthcare close to home,” Nicholls said.
“The redevelopment will revitalise the CBD and support the attraction and retention of skilled health workers across the region.”
Chief Executive of Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Leena Singh, said the redevelopment would deliver broad community and economic benefits.
“This project will support workforce growth, strengthen research partnerships and enhance our ability to address unique health challenges in tropical Far North Queensland,” Singh said.
Chair of Advance Cairns, Nick Trompf, said the masterplan marked an important milestone for regional development.
“A strong economy relies on a high-quality health ecosystem, and this expansion will play a key role in supporting long-term growth,” Trompf said.
James Cook University Vice Chancellor and President Professor, Simon Biggs, said the project would strengthen collaboration between education, research and healthcare.
“By working together, we are shaping the future of health for the people of Far North Queensland,” Professor Biggs said.
