In the News: Forces demand action on South West health ‘system in distress’

Augusta Margaret River Times 8 August 2025

Summary
Health leaders and local MPs have raised urgent concerns about the South West’s hospital network following record ambulance ramping in July, with Bunbury Regional Hospital the worst affected. The Australian Medical Association WA warns the system is “in distress” as patient transfers from Margaret River and Augusta face growing delays. Despite a $471 million redevelopment of Bunbury Hospital, critics say the investment will not meet demand and is leaving smaller hospitals under-resourced.

Key Points

• Record ramping: July saw the worst-ever ambulance ramping figures for regional WA; Bunbury led the statistics.

• AMA warning: AMA WA president Dr Kyle Hoath says ramping is “symptomatic of a healthcare system in distress.”

• Margaret River impact: Ongoing concerns about patient transport to Bunbury or Perth; loss of local surgical capacity over the past decade.

• State investment: $471m for Bunbury redevelopment welcomed but predicted to be insufficient for projected demand.

• Political pressure:

  • Bevan Eatts MLA calls for release of long-dormant master plan to expand Margaret River Hospital.

  • Shadow Health Minister Libby Mettam criticises government for not funding regional hospital upgrades despite budget surplus.

• WACHS reforms: Permanent doctors now at Margaret River Hospital, replacing rotating GP roster.