Central Queenslanders are being invited to step inside Rockhampton Hospital’s new 32-bed Adult Inpatient Mental Health Unit before it welcomes its first consumers.
To celebrate construction completion, a community open day will be held next month to give locals a rare opportunity to tour the new purpose-built facility and see firsthand the spaces designed to support recovery, dignity and wellbeing.
The new unit represents Central Queensland’s largest investment in mental health infrastructure, increasing adult inpatient capacity at Rockhampton Hospital from 23 to 32 beds.
The contemporary facility has been designed with recovery at its heart, featuring private patient rooms, therapeutic and communal spaces, outdoor courtyards and facilities that provide a welcoming and supportive environment for consumers, families and staff.
The new unit is also creating local jobs, with more than 40 new positions being recruited across nursing, allied health, clinical and operational roles as the service prepares to welcome consumers.
Central Queensland Health Service Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said the new facility represented a major investment in the future of mental health care for the region.
"The new Adult Inpatient Mental Health Unit has been designed to provide a therapeutic environment that supports recovery while also creating a safer and more supportive workplace for our staff," she said.
"Importantly, this isn't just an investment in a building. It's an investment in people, services and our future workforce."
The facility has been designed using a Design with Country approach, drawing inspiration from local geology, waterways, flora and fauna to create a calm and welcoming environment that promotes healing and connection.
Central Queensland Health's General Manager of Mental Health Alcohol Other Drugs Service Kelley Yates said every aspect of the design had been carefully considered to support consumers, families and carers throughout their mental health journey.
"The expanded workforce will help ensure the service can continue to meet the growing needs of the community while providing compassionate, contemporary care closer to home," she said.
"The opening of this facility creates exciting opportunities for clinicians, nurses, allied health professionals and support staff to join a modern mental health service and help shape the future of care in our region.
“Recruitment efforts are continuing with opportunities available across a broad range of disciplines.”
To celebrate the completion of the unit, the community is invited to attend the official opening and community open day on Saturday 5 September 2026.
The event will provide a rare opportunity for members of the public to tour the facility, learn about its recovery-focused design and gain a better understanding of contemporary inpatient mental health care.
Ms Yates said the facility belonged to the community and wanted people to see firsthand the investment being made to support future generations.
"By opening our doors, we're also helping break down stigma through understanding and encouraging important conversations about mental health" she said.
"More than bricks and mortar, this facility represents hope, recovery, compassion and a commitment to ensuring people experiencing mental illness receive the care and support they deserve."
Official opening and Community open day
Date: Saturday 5 September 2026
Time: 9.00am to 12.00pm
Location: New Adult Inpatient Mental Health Unit, Rockhampton Hospital, Quarry Street, Rockhampton
To attend community members can register online.