NSW hospitals face fire safety lapses and pediatric staffing gaps

A parliamentary inquiry revealed that Calvary Mater Newcastle has been non‑fire‑compliant for years, with seven of its ten buildings lacking a valid Annual Fire Safety Statement. Whistleblower Luke Carroll warned that "in the event of a fire, you wouldn't get out" and described a series of temporary fixes. The issue stems from a public‑private partnership with Novacare, and NSW Health is seeking clarification while opposition figures such as Shadow Health Minister Sarah Mitchell have criticised the government’s oversight.

Separately, the Murrumbidgee Local Health District rejected claims of a paediatric "crisis" at Griffith Base Hospital, despite the death of long‑time paediatrician Professor Maxwell Hopp in September 2025 and the absence of a resident paediatrician. The district said staffing levels have increased and assured the community that the hospital provides "safe, high‑quality, timely care," while local advocates continue to press for a permanent replacement.