New $4.1m specialist care nursery at Albany Health Campus now open for premature babies and their mothers

Albany’s specialist care nursery for premature babies was deemed open for business on Friday, more than eight months after it reached practical completion. Located in the Albany Health Campus, the $4.1 million facility caters to infants born from 34 weeks and babies with other complex health issues. Health Minister Meredith Hammat, who visited the level-two facility last week, said it eliminated the need for mothers and babies to travel to Perth for care following birth. “More than 550 babies are born at Albany Health Campus every year, but until now preterm babies born before 37 weeks gestation needed to be transferred to Perth for treatment in those fragile early days and weeks,” she said. “This specialist care nursery means more families can stay closer to home and their support networks while their babies receive the care they need. “The Cook Labor Government is committed to ensuring every Western Australian can access high-quality health care, no matter where they live.” The facility boasts four beds and an additional six registered nurses to assist the midwives and paediatricians. Premier Roger Cook announced the level-two nursery in August 2024, with construction of the facility reaching “practical completion” in November. Health Infrastructure Minister John Carey said the nursery comprised part of an “ambitious health infrastructure program”. “The Government’s investment in the specialist care nursery has doubled capacity, expanding care for mums and babies in the Great Southern.”