WA's first children's hospice approved

The Western Australian Planning Commission has approved the state's first and only purpose-built children's hospice facility, designed by Hassell.

The facility will provide round-the-clock care for children with life-limiting conditions.

The project will be built on the site of the former Swanbourne Bowling Club. It will house seven beds, some with adjoining family suites, as well as a hydrotherapy pool, a fenced playground, garden spaces including a memorial garden, indoor play areas, communal living and dining areas, therapy and clinical spaces and meeting rooms.

The design is supported by the State Design Review Panel and was commended for its high quality, prioritization of connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, outlook to broader sites and views and commitment to Aboriginal cultural engagement. The design has also undergone 18 months of refinement to resolve land use issues on potential bushfire risks.

The $33 million project is a partnership between Perth Children's Hospital Foundation and Child and Adolescent Health Services, and it will be jointly funded by the state and federal governments along with donations from Lotterywest, the WA community and local businesses.

"This beautifully designed and situated hospice will make a tremendous difference to the West Australian families going through what is the most challenging of journeys," said WA premier Roger Cook.

"I am looking forward to seeing this important facility complete and supporting children, their parents, siblings and other loved ones and providing them comfort."