The operation of the major hospital in Frenchs Forest is set to be transferred to NSW Health in an agreement understood to be worth $190 million.
The Official Transfer
NSW Health confirmed that the Northern Beaches Hospital will return to public ownership on 29 April 2026. This confirmation comes after reports surfaced last week regarding the deal to take back the 494-bed facility from its current private operator, Healthscope. The decision follows a period of uncertainty for the hospital, which is currently under receivership.
Staffing and Employment
State health officials have moved quickly to reassure the hospital’s workforce about their future. NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM stated that all existing clinical and support staff would be offered roles within the state system. She noted that while the transition period would have its challenges, the staff had consistently prioritised their patients and the community throughout the difficulties.
Northern Sydney Local Health District Chief Executive Officer Anthony Schembri AM added that staff leave entitlements would be maintained under the new arrangements. He said that employment offers for most staff were expected to be sent out before Christmas. Medical staff, including junior officers and specialists, would likely receive their offers in early 2026, to align with their clinical training terms.
Leadership Response
Healthscope CEO Tino La Spina said the finalised agreement provided much-needed certainty for both the staff and the wider community. He expressed confidence that patients would continue to receive high-quality care from the same skilled teams who have served them until now. Mr La Spina also noted that the operator would work closely with NSW Health to ensure a smooth transition.
Concerns Over Private Services
Despite the official announcements, significant questions remain regarding the future of private health services at the site. Senior doctors have warned that removing the private hospital component could force residents to travel outside the area for critical care. There are fears that vital services, such as robotic surgery, heart stenting, and complex cancer treatments, could be lost if the private model is not retained.
Dr David Jollow, chair of the hospital’s Medical Advisory Committee, said senior clinicians were extremely concerned that a loss of private care would burden the public system and increase waiting times. Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Matthew Sherlock echoed these sentiments, warning that private patients might join public waiting lists if they wished to stay on the Northern Beaches for surgery.
Community Advocacy
Local Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan welcomed the contract signing but urged the government to maintain the current range of services. He stated that he had secured a commitment for the hospital to remain a Level 5 facility with no reduction in bed numbers. However, he is seeking further assurances that life-saving interventional services, particularly for cardiac care, will be protected during the shift to public management.
Published Date 06-January-2026
