Western Australia's first children's hospice is nearing completion, with the state government boosting funding towards future operations. The project has faced several delays and setbacks after one local council became embroiled in a long-running saga over a nearby parkland.
00:00The Premier's first media appearance for 2026.
00:07Today we're announcing an allocation of more than $20 million over the next couple of years for commissioning and operational funding.
00:15The money put towards resourcing and staffing the Swanbourne Children's Hospice, first promised back in 2020 by then Health Minister Roger Cook.
00:24Construction progressing well on the facility which will include home-like guest bedrooms and a bereavement suite.
00:31It will include a team of doctors, specialist allied health people, nurses, pharmacists and of course a whole range of support staff as well.
00:40The hospice is expected to open later this year providing a space for children and young people with life-limiting conditions.
00:49The project however hasn't been without its hiccups. The City of Nedlands opposed plans to build a parkland on an A-class reserve next to the facility forcing the government to take control of the land last year.
01:01This was a tough challenge. It was something that I think none of us expected to have opposition from a local council.
01:09They delayed this facility so it will be many, many months later so there will be literally hundreds of kids who won't get to enjoy this facility because of the decisions made by some of those people.
01:20Nedlands Council has since been temporarily taken over by three commissioners after the council was sacked.
01:26The chair of commissioners says the city has formed a working group which will meet regularly with the Perth Children's Hospice Foundation to form a strong relationship.
01:39If you'd be!!!
01:56What would you like during the playing field of action please call me!?
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