A new $55 million health research facility has been officially opened by the NSW Government in south-west Sydney to deliver world-leading research alongside academic and philanthropic partners.
The state-of-the-art Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building – Macarthur will develop treatments and therapies to improve outcomes for people living with complex health issues.
The new facility is a tribute to the late Lang Walker AO, whose generosity remains a key part of his enormous legacy, said Premier Chris Minns.
“Lang Walker left an enormous legacy across New South Wales, and that continues with this medical research facility,” said the Premier.
“The discoveries made at this facility will become real-world treatments that will improve lives.
“This is cutting-edge infrastructure for Western Sydney that will boost health outcomes in NSW and across the world.”
Situated on the grounds of Campbelltown Hospital, the multi-storey building features the latest research technologies and cutting-edge laboratories. Located next to the Western Sydney University’s Macarthur Clinical School, it will bring together local and international researchers, clinicians, and post-graduate students.
“The Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building – Macarthur will attract specialist researchers and clinicians to Campbelltown Hospital and provide opportunities for local patients and communities to take part in clinical research,” said South Western Sydney Local Health District Chief Executive, Sonia Marshall PSM.
“There has never been a more exciting time to join the Campbelltown Hospital as we work with our partners to build the future of healthcare in south western Sydney.’’
The Government says the research will have national significance, focusing on five key areas: diabetes, mental health, Indigenous health, paediatrics & child wellbeing and addiction medicine.
“This incredible new facility is so much more than just a building, it’s a springboard for the next generation of patient treatments,” said Minister for Medical Research, David Harris.
“Researchers in this new research centre will focus on complex health challenges, including mental health, diabetes, paediatrics, and addiction medicine, as well as helping close the gap in health outcomes for our Aboriginal and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.”
The facility has been developed in partnership with Western Sydney University, South Western Sydney Local Health District, the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research and UNSW Sydney, with the financial, development and delivery support of the Walker Corporation.
“I congratulate the family of the late Lang Walker AO, the Walker Group and the partners involved in the delivery of the magnificent Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building – Macarthur, a vital part of the Campbelltown Health and Education Precinct,” said Health Minister, Ryan Park.
“This will be a hub of innovation, collaboration, education and research which will transform healthcare and impact the lives of the 1.2 million residents expected to call this region home from 2031,” he said.
“This cutting-edge facility is an incredible tribute to Walker’s late founder, Lang Walker AO, whose enduring legacy reflects his generosity and dedication to driving generational change through transformative placemaking, health, education and cultural projects,” said Walker Corporation Managing Director and CEO, David Gallant.
“Lang knew this centre would help hundreds of thousands of people with world class research and clinical care, and he’d be incredibly proud to see his namesake, the Lang Walker AO Medical Research Building opening its doors to local families across South Western Sydney.’’
Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO said the new facility stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when community, research, and innovation come together.
“Grounded in the needs of our region, this world-class facility is a home for research that will transform health outcomes locally and beyond,” he said.
“By listening to our community and turning research into action, we have created a place where innovative solutions will improve lives and shape the future of south-west Sydney.”
Home to the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research in Macarthur, the facility complements the NSW Government’s $632 million Stage 2 Redevelopment of Campbelltown Hospital, completed in 2024, and the broader Campbelltown Health and Education Precinct.
