Progress update on LGH heating and cooling upgrades

The major upgrade of the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system in older sections of the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) is progressing well, and another key construction milestone has been reached this week.

Works in LGH Obstetrics Ward 4O are progressing ahead of schedule and new ducted air conditioning has been installed and activated in half of the patient rooms in the Ward, with 10 rooms now equipped with upgraded heating and cooling systems.  

Works are continuing in the remaining 10 rooms in Ward 4O, with four additional rooms on track to be completed in early 2026, followed by the final six rooms in mid-2026.

Internal works in Ward 6D are also progressing well and are on track for completion in February 2026. The remaining three floors in D Block will be upgraded progressively throughout 2026. Each floor’s new system will be commissioned as works finish, immediately delivering benefits in those areas.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the safety and comfort of patients and staff at our hospitals is paramount.  

“We are focused on fixing these longstanding heating and cooling issues to ensure patients have a safe and comfortable experience,” Minister Archer said.

“Delivering these types of critical system upgrades within a working hospital is a highly complex task.

“As a result, the upgrades are being carefully staged and sequenced to minimise disruption to clinical services and maintain continuity of care.

“While works continue to progress over the warmer months, measures to improve patient comfort have been implemented, including the installation of sun-blocking blinds and the replacement of ageing window tinting and window seals.

“The LGH will also continue to deploy portable air-conditioning units to improve staff, patient and visitor comfort.”