NSW Government passes ‘Joe’s Law’ to end public-private hospital partnerships after toddler’s death

The parents of a two-year-old who died after attending a public-private NSW hospital have praised new legislation passed in his name.

‘Joe’s Law’, an amendment to the Health Services Act, was passed in NSW parliament on Thursday. Picture: Supplied

Landmark legislation known as ‘Joe’s Law’, after a toddler died in harrowing circumstances in one of the state’s top hospitals, has been passed in NSW parliament – and deemed “justice” by his parents.

The PPP Prohibition Bill – an amendment to the Health Services Act – was triggered by the tragic death of two-year-old Joe Massa, who died of a cardiac arrest after waiting for an emergency appointment at Northern Beaches Hospital in September 2024.

It bans future public private partnerships for the state’s acute hospitals.

Joe’s parents, Danny and Elouise Massa, have been tireless advocates for the change, citing systemic failures at the hospital that contributed to their son’s death.

“This Prohibition Bill has been passed for Joe and for every person in NSW,” Ms Massa said.

“We believe that we make the world safer when we speak up. That bravery is contagious and others speak up when we speak up. That is why Joe’s Law has passed today.”

The new law will prevent the government from entering into similar arrangements, ensuring that public hospitals remain fully under public control.

Health Minister Ryan Park said while the private sector plays an “important part” in public hospital service, a public-private partnership “raises complex issues and risks”.

The new legislation comes after reports of “deteriorating working conditions” at Northern Beaches Hospital and a parliamentary inquiry following Joe’s death.

“The PPP Prohibition Bill has made important amendments to the Health Services Act to prohibit governments from entering into a Northern Beaches-style arrangement to build or operate an acute public hospital,” he said.

“This Government does not believe, and never has believed, that this is a model that is best for public health care.”

Ms Massa said she and Mr Massa had been “moved to tears” hearing members endorse the amendment.

“As Joe’s mother I know his legacy will live on and lives will be saved.”

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