The Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, has officially opened its new emergency department (ED), enhancing healthcare facilities for children and their families. The new ED, located on Botany Street, features a modern design aimed at improving patient flow and comfort. To help families navigate the building, an orientation video featuring popular children’s entertainers, The Wiggles, has been produced.
The new emergency department includes clinical pods designed to streamline patient care and a Short Stay Unit for those requiring less than 24 hours of treatment. The engaging video, featuring characters like Tshehay, John, and Dorothy the Dinosaur, guides children and caregivers through the layout, including single patient rooms that prioritize privacy and comfort, as well as imaging suites and recreational spaces.
In addition to the new ED, a patient drop-off zone and expanded short-term and disability parking are now accessible from Botany Street. This development is part of a larger initiative by the NSW Government, which has invested $658 million into the first stage of the Sydney Children’s Hospital and the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre. This investment is part of a more extensive commitment exceeding $1.5 billion towards health infrastructure in the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct.
Government and Hospital Officials Welcome New Facilities
Health Minister Ryan Park emphasized the importance of the new emergency department in reducing stress for families. “Going to an emergency department is a stressful time for anybody, parent or carer,” he stated. “The new ED will help improve patient flow while increasing privacy and comfort for families.” Park expressed anticipation for the official opening of the facility in the coming year, highlighting its potential to enhance pediatric healthcare across the state.
Member for Coogee, Marjorie O’Neill, described the opening as a significant advancement for the hospital. “This is an exciting new chapter for the Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, which continues to put children first and foremost in every aspect of care,” she noted. O’Neill emphasized the facility’s role in driving innovation and supporting families and staff.
Chief Executive of the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, Cathryn Cox PSM, praised the dedication of hospital staff, who will continue to provide care around the clock. “Our dedicated and hard-working staff will continue to help children 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and parents can continue to access our ED through its new entrance in Botany Street,” she stated. Cox also thanked The Wiggles for their involvement in creating the orientation video, describing it as a fun and informative way to introduce families to the new facility.
The expansion of the Sydney Children’s Hospital marks a new era in pediatric care, offering state-of-the-art environments tailored to meet the needs of families today and in the future.
