Passing by Princess Alexandra Hospital, it's hard to miss the transformation taking shape as the expansion begins to emerge from behind the scaffolding.
The changing skyline is becoming increasingly visible for staff, patients and visitors who can now get a good glimpse of the four new floors built on top of the existing emergency department.
It’s an exciting visual milestone for the PAH Expansion Project team, who were recently named as finalists in the 2026 Department of Health Awards for Excellence.
Senior Director for the Expansion Project, Noelene Herbert said the recognition in the Be Courageous category is a testament to the dedicated people behind the project.
“We’re so honoured to be named as finalists, and it really highlights the collaborative effort of project partners, construction teams and hospital staff,” she said.
The award submission details how the project team has overcome significant logistical and clinical challenges to build above a busy emergency department.
An innovative 15-stage decant strategy enabled critical infrastructure works to proceed safely without disrupting patient care.
“While the project team has been recognised as a finalist, this acknowledgement really belongs to the entire PA Hospital community,” said Noelene.
“Every stage of the expansion has relied on the flexibility and patience of our supportive staff, who have continued to deliver exceptional care while major construction takes place around them.”
Winners of the 2026 Department of Health Awards for Excellence will be announced on 9 September 2026.
As the exterior of the PA Hospital Expansion reaches completion, the focus is moving inside the building to preparing the people, services and systems that will bring the expanded hospital to life.
The expansion will deliver 249 new overnight beds, including 30 ICU beds, expanded pharmacy and medical imaging services, and 13 new oncology treatment bays.
Read more about the PA Hospital Expansion: Princess Alexandra Hospital expansion | Metro South Health