NSW Government Takes Charge of Mater Hospital Mould Remediation
The Minns government has announced it will directly oversee critical remediation work at the Calvary Mater Newcastle hospital, stating that private partner Novacare has been "too slow" in addressing a dangerous mould crisis that has plagued the facility for years. Health Minister Ryan Park confirmed that cladding replacement on the hospital's external facade will commence immediately to prevent further water leaks that have contributed to the contamination.
Systemic Issues Affecting Cancer Patients and Staff
The Aspergillus fumigatus mould has created significant health concerns throughout the hospital, with particular risks for cancer patients and those with compromised immune systems. Multiple wards have been forced to close, including one incident where maggots fell from air-conditioning vents onto patients. While pest control issues have reportedly been resolved, staff remain deeply concerned about systemic problems.
"The mould is absolutely everywhere through the whole air-conditioning system," one staff member revealed. "Until the problem of mould in the air-conditioning gets fixed, we will keep going around in circles. Every time the humidity increases, the mould finds its way out, making its way into the rooms and to patients."
Government Intervention and Contractual Complications
Minister Park acknowledged the government is dealing with "a complex contractual arrangement" with Novacare, which holds maintenance responsibilities under a private-public partnership. NSW Health has issued multiple breach notices to the company regarding required remediation works, but progress has been repeatedly delayed due to ongoing commercial discussions.
"We are examining the contract to determine how we can more strongly compel these private operators to meet their obligations," Park stated, adding that legal action against Novacare is being considered.
Comprehensive Remediation Plan Underway
The government's intervention includes several key components:
- Immediate replacement of non-compliant external cladding to prevent water infiltration
- Ongoing improvements to the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system that began on January 14
- Extensive air testing throughout the remediation process
- Replacement of mechanical systems and ductwork expected to take several months
Scaffolding and hoarding have already been erected at the Platt Street end of the South Block, with remediation works scheduled to begin as soon as practicable. The government has opted to work directly with a building contractor rather than waiting for Novacare to act.
Political Support and Community Concerns
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery welcomed the government's intervention, describing the previous situation as "untenable." "We cannot tolerate any lack of action in our main oncology hospital for Newcastle and the Hunter," she emphasised.
The Mater serves as the Hunter region's primary cancer treatment facility, making the mould crisis particularly concerning for vulnerable patients. While the government has not disclosed the cost of cladding work, the comprehensive remediation plan represents a significant investment in restoring the hospital's safety and functionality.
Hunter New England Health confirmed that air testing will continue throughout the remediation process, which Novacare is carrying out under government supervision. The long-term mould remediation plan remains a collaborative effort between government authorities and the private partner, despite the current tensions over implementation timelines.
