St John of God Richmond Hospital celebrates opening of major redevelopment significantly expanding mental health care

28 May 2024

St John of God Richmond Hospital's existing 88-bed hospital has been transformed to a new purpose-built and expanded 112-bed facility that provides comprehensive, accessible and life-changing mental health care.

With a strong focus on providing support for first responders and veterans, St John of God Richmond Hospital now enables more clients to heal and recover in the newly designed accommodation that includes only private rooms with ensuites. 

The other facilities unveiled include the neurostimulation suite which will provide innovative, modern and safe electro-convulsive therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation services and the new dining pavilion which features a light and airy dining space and an inviting café for clients, caregivers and visitors.

This is a major milestone in the hospital’s $65 million dollar redevelopment after the impressive Wellness Centre opened in August 2023, which features a gym, group room for yoga, meditation and indoor pool. 

The Most Reverend Vincent Long Van Nguyen OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta blessed the redevelopment, and the blessing and official opening was attended by General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Mil) CVO MC (Retd), St John of God Health Care Trustee Chair Hon Neville Owen AO, KCSG, St John of God Health Care Board Chair Hon Kerry Sanderson AC and Group CEO Bryan Pyne, invited guests and clients.

St John of God Health Care Board Chair Hon Kerry Sanderson AC CVO said the redevelopment ensured St John of God Health Care continued to be a leading provider of mental health care.

“St John of God Health Care is proud to be continuing our longstanding legacy by providing a safe place to receive care for mental illness through holistic person-centred care,” she said.

“Through this redevelopment, St John of God Richmond Hospital has created a sanctuary that inspires confidence, trust and promotes hope and healing through excellent care.

St John of God Health Care Group CEO Bryan Pyne said that consultation with clients and carers was key in informing the design of the new facilities.

“We engaged with our clients and their families to ensure our services were designed to meet their mental health care needs, as well as guiding St John of God Health Care’s mental health strategy,” Bryan said. 

“The facilities we are showcasing today have been developed to help people overcome the disconnection and isolation that comes with mental illness and assist with reconnecting to family and friends.”

The final redevelopment phase will include a new chapel and pharmacy with completion expected by the end of 2024.