When the former NSW Coalition Government introduced paid parking at Campbelltown Hospital in 2021, Dr Mike Freelander MP, the Federal Member for Macarthur, described the decision as nothing short of “disgraceful” and “insulting to patients, their families and staff”.

Whilst paid parking remains, albeit with concessions to assist staff and the overall programme managed by the NSW Government, Dr Freelander was very happy to recently secure a community win.

After speaking with local constituents about the situation for families visiting loved ones in hospital over Christmas, Dr Freelander wrote to the South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWS-LHD), urging them to consider implementing free parking at Campbelltown Hospital on Christmas Day.

After reviewing Dr Freelander’s request, the SWS-LHD agreed to implement this, ensuring patients and their families do not have to pay for parking on Christmas Day.

“I, like all Macarthur residents, do not agree with paid parking at our public hospitals, however, I am very proud to help make Christmas that little bit merrier for those visiting their loved ones in Campbelltown Hospital this Christmas.

“I thank SWS-LHD for agreeing to this proposal and I thank them for their hard work in our region

“I continue to call for paid parking at Campbelltown Hospital to be scrapped, however as that is a matter for the NSW Government, I am happy that my office can help secure small wins such as free parking on Christmas Day”