In fantastic news for the Cairns community, the Crisafulli Government has unveiled a major health investment that will directly benefit Far North Queensland. Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, Cairns is set to receive a significant boost in hospital capacity—with 104 new hospital beds—as part of the most ambitious health infrastructure upgrade in Queensland’s history.
This plan isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about delivering real outcomes for locals. After years of frustration, delays, and cost blowouts under Labor, Cairns residents will finally see the hospital improvements they deserve.
- 64 new overnight beds at Cairns Hospital by 2027, easing the pressure on local health services.
- A brand-new surgical centre with at least 40 additional overnight beds, planned and designed in collaboration with local clinicians.
- A multi-storey car park, making access easier for patients, families, and staff.
- Funding to find a new, safer location for the hospital helipad—a long-standing clinical and public safety concern.
- Future-focused planning through partnerships with local tertiary education providers to develop a health and innovation precinct.
Boosts Across the Region:
- Cooktown: 8 new beds and the return of birthing services.
- Cairns Adolescent Mental Health Project: 8 new beds to support our youth.
- Yarrabah: Improved parking and helipad relocation.
- Replacements for primary healthcare centres in Bamaga, Laura, Boigu, Badu Island, Lockhart River, Horn Island, Cow Bay, and Pormpuraaw—bringing modern, reliable care to remote communities.
- New staff accommodation for the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.
This plan is a breath of fresh air after years of poor planning and mismanagement under Labor, which saw Cairns Hospital suffer a $378 million blowout and no clear plan to address essential services like the helipad or car parking.
Now, under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the Cairns community can look forward to better access, shorter wait times, and health infrastructure that’s built for the future.
A Healthier Future for Cairns
Premier David Crisafulli said it best: “We promised easier access to health services and we’re delivering. This is a record investment that will help heal the Queensland Health Crisis and deliver more hospitals where they’re needed most.”
Health Minister Tim Nicholls added, “This plan listens to our local clinicians, and it’s about delivering the services our communities actually need.”
For Cairns, this means real investment in real solutions—designed for locals, with locals.
