Purpose-built acute distress unit within Westmead ED announced

Tuesday, 07 April, 2026

To provide a secure, therapeutic environment designed to support patients experiencing acute distress, a new purpose-built unit within Westmead ED has been announced by the NSW Government.

Westmead has seen a 31% increase in the past five years in presentations where a patient is experiencing mental health or behavioural related issues, the government said.

The government also said there has been a significant increase in aggression towards frontline health staff in the Western Sydney Local Health District.

“These issues may be related to substance abuse and can be exacerbated in a busy emergency department environment,” the government said in a statement.

“The new 6-bed unit will be a quiet space with less stimulation, better suited to patients who are at risk of becoming agitated or aggressive.”

“This new acute behavioural assessment unit will create a safer environment for both staff as well as patients experiencing heightened distress,” NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said.

“It’s part of a broader range of measures we are undertaking to improve safety and security in our hospitals.”

NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association General Secretary Michael Whaites said: “We welcome the creation of a dedicated, purpose-built unit in Westmead ED in order to combat the rising violence and aggression our members are experiencing.

“This is a great example of what can be achieved when we come together to find solutions to make hospitals safer for staff and patients, while ensuring the community has access to quality, timely care.

“We are proud of our members’ ongoing advocacy and grateful for the collaborative approach that has delivered this outcome.

“This specialised unit will strengthen hospital safety, improve patient outcomes, and is a strong investment into the future of our public health system.”

Construction will begin in August, with the new unit expected to be completed in early 2027.

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