Gold Coast Health has reached a milestone in the development of its new purpose-built Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) facility at Proxima, with the internal fit-out tender process officially closed on 12 May.
The 1400 square metre facility, co-designed in close collaboration with clinicians, architects and young people with lived experience, is located in the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct. The design focuses on creating a safe, welcoming and therapeutic environment tailored to the needs of children and adolescents accessing mental health support.
To support ongoing engagement with staff and stakeholders, Gold Coast Health is using a that showcases the final design. This visual walkthrough helps with feedback and shaping the evolving service model.
Clinical Lead for the relocating CYMHS services Emma Hawkins said it¡¯s important to focus on each young person¡¯s unique journey when tailoring mental health care.
¡°Our aim is to understand young people's individual needs and experiences while also taking into account the people, places and systems that shape their world,¡± Emma said.
¡°Continued engagement of young people, families and CYMHS clinicians throughout the design phase and into the service relocation phase is vital.
¡°This ensures our built environment and our care services reflect and respond to the diverse needs of young people at all stages of development and that we provide a safe, therapeutic clinical setting for treatment and recovery.¡±
With the design finalised earlier this year and the fit-out tender process complete, construction is scheduled to begin this quarter, keeping the project on track for completion in October 2025.
The facility¡¯s design reflects the Gold Coast¡¯s natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the Nerang River, beaches and hinterland. It incorporates curves and sensory features including adjustable lighting, sound-absorbing materials, and textured finishes to create a calm and appropriate setting.
This next phase of delivery supports Gold Coast Health¡¯s Better Care Together strategy and reaffirms the commitment to providing youth mental health services in environments that promote connection, recovery and excellence in care.