Statement regarding the announced closure of Wesley Hospital Ashfield, and Wesley Hospital Kogarah

Over the last year Wesley Mission has been in negotiations with a number of potential buyers regarding the possible sale of the sites of our two mental health hospitals at Ashfield and Kogarah, and the ongoing operations of each facility.    

Following a period of due diligence with potential purchasers, it was determined that the sale was unable to proceed.   

Both hospitals have been operating with low occupancies and at a significant loss for some time, despite the best efforts of our staff team to improve their financial viability.  

At its 22 February 2024 meeting, the Wesley Mission Board agreed that both hospitals will be closing, with operations ceasing on 12 April 2024.  

All current patients will continue to be cared for in the hospitals until they are safe for discharge or admitted to another appropriate health facility if required. There will be a continuity of care for many as they will remain patients of their current psychiatrists. 

Why are you exiting this service at this time?

We’re doing what we’ve always done as an organisation throughout our history, responding to emerging needs and adapting our service mix to meet them.

Wesley Mission is still involved and committed to the provision of community based mental health services through our LifeForce Suicide Prevention Network nationally and through Lifeline Sydney and Sutherland.

What will happen with the sites?

No decisions have yet been made about what will happen with the sites. We will carefully consider all options. Our immediate focus is on supporting our staff, patients and consultant clinicians as we move through the closure process.

Whatever we decide to do will be in keeping with our purpose to keep doing all the good we can.

What will happen to the patients after the closure?

The closure will not affect the patient/doctor relationships already in place. These will continue.

Most doctors who rented consulting rooms in our facilities have similar arrangements elsewhere – so their work, and their care for their patients will continue.

Are there any replacement services being offered by Wesley or other organisations? 

Wesley Mission is in communication with patients and a range of other mental health service providers about assisting those patients who may require ongoing care after April 12. 

Why didn’t you approach the government for funding?

These are private hospitals where operations are funded through patients’ private health insurance. They receive no government funding.