New $40m health and education hub now open in Adelaide’s northern suburbs

A new state-of-the-art health and education hub, valued at $40 million dollars, has recently been unveiled in Adelaide’s northern suburbs.

The initiative is spearheaded by the South Australian not-for-profit aged care provider, ACH Group, in collaboration with several key stakeholders, including the University of South Australia, the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network and the City of Playford. 

Central to this innovative hub is the newly established UniSA Health Clinic, which offers an integrated healthcare experience including general practice, nursing and allied health services. This clinic is designed to cater to both residents and the surrounding community, offering a combination of professional healthcare and cost-effective services facilitated by students.

Professor Esther May, the UniSA pro-vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, emphasised the university’s dedication to supporting educational opportunities and bolstering the healthcare workforce in the northern suburbs. She explained that, as a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme provider, the clinic would further enhance the provision of adult and paediatric NDIS services in the area. Moreover, nursing and allied health students will have the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in both the residential care home and the clinic — a vital component of their educational journey.

The ACH Group has contributed to this project by establishing a 96-place residential care home, characterised by a unique and innovative small household-built form. The care home comprises eight purpose-built, single-story houses situated in a village-like setting. These houses feature 12 self-contained resident rooms with en-suite facilities, large open-plan living areas and fully equipped kitchens, fostering an environment reminiscent of traditional households. This design allows residents to engage in daily activities, enhancing their overall quality of life.

To promote a smooth transition from hospital to home or more suitable accommodation, NALHN will occupy 24 rooms within the care home, facilitating the recovery process for older individuals.

Mayor of Playford Glenn Docherty highlighted the long-standing vision for the Playford Health and Well-being Precinct, which was conceived more than a decade ago. He expressed the community’s desire for world-class healthcare, education, rehabilitation and research facilities within the precinct, complementing the growing Lyell McEwin Hospital. This expansion aligns with the needs of the rapidly growing population in the northern region.

Health and Well-being Minister Chris Picton welcomed Healthia as a valuable addition to the northern suburbs, particularly in its unique approach to aged care.

“Healthia provides a new approach to aged care and is the first care home in Australia that implements the Green House Project model founded in the US,” Mr Picton said.

The unveiling of this health and education hub symbolises a significant step toward enhancing healthcare, education, and overall well-being in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, fostering a brighter future for the local community.