The Ministry of Health is negotiating with private car park operators at NSW public hospitals to ensure staff are able to access these car parks at no cost to their employee.
Car parking fees for health workers have been a point of contention over the last few years, since price increases occurred at the opening of a new car park at Gosford Hospital.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the NSW Government is doing everything it can to reduce the stress on our health staff who are working around the clock during this pandemic.
Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the new measures would take effect across NSW from April 10, 2020.
“This means all rostered on staff from doctors, nurses and allied health staff to our other frontline heroes – the cleaners and security staff who make sure our hospitals run smoothly – can park for free at public hospital car parks,” said Mr Hazzard.
“I would like to commend local councils who are already assisting by improving car parking for staff around our hospitals,” Mr Hazzard said.
Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes said these changes will go a long way to ensure our health workers are well supported during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is a stressful time for our hospital staff, who are doing vital work to keep the community safe, and these measures announced by the NSW Government will ensure they are supported during this health crisis,” Mr Hayes said.
Source: Media release Department of Premier and Cabinet April 10, 2020