In the News: Fears Bunbury Hospital ‘dangerously busy’ as major redevelopment still years away
Augusta Margaret River Times 11 July 2025
Summary
Local medical professionals and the AMA have raised serious concerns about Bunbury Hospital’s capacity and the broader South West health system, citing critical underinvestment and ongoing ambulance ramping issues. Despite a planned $471 million redevelopment, doctors argue the situation remains dire and investment in surrounding hospitals like Margaret River is lacking.
Key Points
Dr Cathy Milligan labelled Bunbury Hospital “dangerously busy,” with top staff spending time managing patient flow rather than delivering care.
Bunbury accounted for over 80% of all regional ambulance ramping in WA last month.
Margaret River Hospital is regularly unable to transfer patients due to Bunbury capacity limits.
AMA WA President Kyle Hoath called for urgent staffing solutions, warning of a health system “in distress.”
Dr Milligan criticised WA Labor’s lack of investment outside Bunbury, particularly in growing areas like Augusta-Margaret River.
Shadow Health Minister Libby Mettam condemned the State’s regional health planning.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat cited the Bunbury redevelopment and an overall 30% staffing increase since 2021 but did not directly address localised criticisms.
WA Country Health Service added 33 interns this year but did not comment on Bunbury issues.
