Health Campus has joined nine hospitals nationwide calling for the federal government to invest in a reliable, renewable energy supply to support critical medical infrastructure.
The All-Electric Healthy Hospitals Campaign, which brings together representatives from over 100,000 health organisations and medical colleges, is calling for the government to use this Federal Budget to invest $1.5 million in a feasibility study to identify how hospitals can transition to reliable, renewable energy without disruption to patient care.
Broome Health Campus obstetrician & gynaecologist, Lauren Kite, said Broome is one of nine sites for the proposed study.
“Diesel generators keep our hospital running when power disruptions happen, but they’re expensive, polluting and not a sustainable long-term option,” Kite said.
“The cost of fuel alone takes resources away from patient care. Investing in renewable energy and battery storage would provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for hospitals like ours."
Healthy Hospitals Campaigner for Healthy Futures, Ursula Alquier, said country hospitals are struggling with aging infrastructure and unreliable power supply.
“For over a year, we’ve been speaking with hospitals from across the country, and many have told us they’re struggling with aging infrastructure, rising fuel costs and backup power systems that are unreliable in a crisis,” Alquier said.
“Hospitals can’t afford to gamble with power failures. That’s why these hospitals see the benefits of going all-electric, to ensure they have reliable, resilient energy when they need it most.
“Feasibility studies will lay the groundwork for this transition, identifying the best solutions for different hospital types so they can keep the lights on and continue delivering care in an emergency.
Alquier said the 2025/2026 Federal Budget is a defining moment.
"Will the government invest in hospitals’ energy resilience to ensure they can withstand disasters—or will it leave them vulnerable to the next blackout?" she asked.