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 two-minute flythrough video 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.
