The NSW Government is spending $5.5 million to provide dedicated housing for medical staff in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, to help fill local hospital vacancies. This investment was announced on 17 February, 2025, as part of a four-year plan to support doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. The goal is to make the region a more attractive destination for healthcare workers and their families by offering affordable places to live.
This funding is part of a larger $200.1 million statewide program that aims to secure about 120 homes across regional areas. The Minns Labor Government is using this initiative to address the critical staffing challenges faced by the local health campus. By providing guaranteed accommodation, the government hopes to improve healthcare access for all residents in the community.
Finding a place to live has become a major hurdle for health staff, as rent prices for units in Coffs Harbour rose by an average of 7 per cent each year leading up to 2025. This shortage has directly impacted the workforce, with approximately 171 hospital-related job openings reported across the region in late 2025. The high cost of living has made it difficult to fill these roles and keep the local health system running smoothly.
The program will include building new units, purchasing existing houses, or renovating older staff quarters to provide flexible housing options. This strategy allows the state to quickly adapt to the specific needs of the local health district. According to NSW Labor, the first project under this broad state plan was finished in Bomaderry in August 2025.
