Australia clarifies CWM Hospital upgrade works

The Australian High Commission has clarified misinformation circulating online about upgrade works at the Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital, confirming that major improvements are already underway.

Australia committed FJ$14.5 million (AUD$10 million) in January 2025 to deliver urgent upgrades at CWM while Fiji develops plans for a new national referral hospital.

The High Commission said it is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and hospital staff to identify priority projects. Local architects and engineers have been engaged to scope the works, with local contractors carrying out the upgrades.

The first phase of the project, valued at FJ$6.7 million, is currently in progress.

Roofing repairs at CWM Hospital and St Giles Hospital are underway and are expected to be completed between December 2025 and May 2026.

Other improvements to acute patient wards include additional bathrooms, improved accessibility, upgraded pantries, staff rooms, multifunctional spaces and sluice rooms. These works are scheduled for completion between January and June 2026.

A new 200,000-litre water tank fitted with a filtration system and pumps is also being installed to improve water security at the hospital.

Sewer remediation works at the Maternity Building are ongoing and are expected to be completed by mid-2026.

Planning for the second phase of the upgrades, valued at FJ$7.8 million, is already underway in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and CWM Hospital management. Further details will be shared once finalised.

The High Commission said the upgrades form part of the Vuvale Partnership between Fiji and Australia, aimed at strengthening essential services, supporting communities and building a more resilient health system.

“Through this partnership, we are committed to helping Fiji provide better care for patients and a safer, more efficient environment for staff,” the High Commission said.