Jabiru’s new $20m, purpose-built health centre opens to locals, tourists in Kakadu National Park

Chief health officer Christine Connors said the new facility meant residents and visitors to Kakadu would have access to state-of-the-art health facilities.

Red Lily Health Board chairwoman June Nadjamerrek said local people and Aboriginal corporations were consulted in the design of the new health centre

Jabiru’s new health centre is officially open with primary health services being delivered by Aboriginal community controlled health organisation Red Lily Health Board.

As the main health provider in Kakadu National Park, the $20 million purpose-built facility will serve both residents and tourists while increasing access to medical services in West Arnhem.

The new health centre features eight consulting suites with pediatric rooms, four multipurpose allied health examination rooms, a four-chair renal ready room and a dental surgery, plus dedicated male and female waiting areas, and a health store.

Specialised facilities include an audiology consulting room with a hearing booth, an X-ray room, a four-berth morgue with a viewing area and an external, culturally appropriate ceremony space.

There are also emergency capabilities, such as a drive-through ambulance bay and an emergency department with two resuscitation bays.

NT Health will continue to provide community support, including visiting specialist services such as pediatrics, dental care, hearing services, mental health support and alcohol and other drug treatment services.

The new health centre is located at 7 Tasman Crescent, Jabiru and can be contacted on 08 8979 9900.

Red Lily Health Board chairwoman June Nadjamerrek said the Aboriginal corporation welcomed the opportunity to provide culturally-appropriate health care from a purpose-built facility in Jabiru.

“We are pleased that local people and Aboriginal corporations were consulted in the design of the new health centre in addressing the specific needs in renal and child health care, as well as ensuring enhanced morgue and mourning facilities on site,” she said.

“Red Lily thank the Northern Territory government for their commitment to community control and local decision-making.”

NT Health chief health officer Christine Connors said the availability of quality healthcare in remote communities was critical to providing culturally safe and responsive care as close to home as possible.

“The new Jabiru health centre will ensure that — now and into the future — residents and visitors to the area will have access to state-of-the-art facilities,” she said.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Red Lily to support care that meets the dynamic needs of the West Arnhem community, helping to achieve the best health outcomes for Territorians.”

Originally published as Jabiru’s new $20m, purpose-built health centre opens to locals, tourists in Kakadu National Park