Who we are 

The Pandanus Unit is a 24-bed acute adult inpatient unit at Gold Coast University Hospital that provides care for adults aged 25 to 65 who are experiencing acute mental health conditions that can no longer be safely supported in the community setting.

Our approach is centred on your recovery journey. We aim to create a safe, supportive environment where symptoms causing distress can be stabilised. From the moment you arrive, we work in partnership with you – and, if you choose, your loved ones – to plan a smooth transition home so you can continue your recovery in a familiar and supportive setting.

Services are delivered by a highly skilled multidisciplinary team, including registered nurses, psychiatrists and medical registrars, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, peer and carer support workers, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers. Together, this diverse team provides expert clinical care, evidence-based therapies, functional and psychosocial support, and culturally safe, recovery-oriented interventions.

What we do 

We provide specialised, recovery-orientated care through tailored treatment plans designed to meet individual needs. These plans may include:

Medication Management: Comprehensive assessment and ongoing monitoring of prescribed medications to ensure safety, effectiveness and adherence. This includes regular reviews by psychiatrists and collaboration with nursing staff to manage side effects and optimise treatment outcomes.

Therapeutic Interventions:

• Individual Sessions: Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed approaches tailored to individual needs.
• Group Sessions: Structured programs focusing on skill-building, emotional regulation, relapse prevention and peer support.

Family Engagement and Support: Active involvement of families and carers in the recovery process through education, counselling and collaborative care planning. This helps strengthen support networks and improve continuity of care post-discharge.

Structured Group Programs: Daily and weekly programs designed to promote recovery, resilience and social connection. These may include psychoeducation, mindfulness, stress management and life skills development.

Recreational and Wellbeing Activities: Activities aimed at enhancing physical, emotional and social wellbeing, such as art therapy, music therapy, exercise programs and relaxation techniques. These activities support holistic recovery and improve quality of life.

Our unit comprises:

• A six-bed Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for individuals requiring close observation and intensive support.
• An 18-bed low-dependency acute ‘open’ unit, promoting a safe and therapeutic environment for recovery.

Care is consumer-focused, comprehensive and collaborative, guided by shared recovery goals. We work closely with community services – including government and non-government organisations – to ensure seamless transitions between hospital care and community support.

Who can access this service

Our services are available to adults aged 25 to 65 years who are experiencing acute mental health needs and reside within the Gold Coast region.

How to access this service  

Admissions are coordinated through Gold Coast Health services, including:

• Emergency Department
• Mental Health Community Teams
• Crisis Stabilisation Unit
• Consultant Liasion Team

If you or someone you care for is experiencing a mental health crisis or requires urgent support, please contact 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55) for immediate assistance and guidance.

Our Location

Gold Coast University Hospital

F Block, Lower Ground

1 Hospital Boulevard
Southport QLD 4215

Visiting Hours

Open Ward

• Monday to Friday: 4–8pm
• Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 10am–8pm

Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)

• Monday to Sunday:
  • 10am–12pm
  • 3–5pm

Phone:   07 5687 7136