The ACT Government has released the first images of a new purpose-built Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) facility to be constructed at Erindale Business Park.

The community-based facility will replace CAMHS Cottage at the North Canberra Hospital campus, which will remain fully operational until the new facility is completed.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, subject to statutory planning approvals.

Services are scheduled to relocate to Erindale by early 2027 as part of the Government’s more than $1 billion investment in the new Northside Hospital.

“The relocation of these vital youth services to Erindale is an important step in enabling the delivery of the new Northside Hospital while ensuring continuity of education for young people and families,” health minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said.

Erindale Business Park hosts a mix of community services and businesses.

“Erindale offers an adaptable site as an established community hub with improved access to public transport, nearby green spaces, ample parking, and capacity for future expansion,” Ms Stephen-Smith said. “It is well suited to meet the current and future needs of young people and families.”

Planning and design work has been undertaken in partnership with architects Billard Leece Partnership Pty Ltd.

Staff and students helped to design the new Cottage, “ensuring it reflects the needs and experiences of those who use this service”, the minister said.

A development application for the new CAMHS facility was lodged this week and is available on the ACT Planning website.