The 2026–27 NSW State Budget has delivered funding for a robotic-assisted surgical system at Orange Health Service, marking a major milestone for healthcare in Central and Western New South Wales and fulfilling a long-standing campaign of Independent NSW MP Phil Donato to bring this advanced medical technology to the region.
The funding announcement represents a transformative investment in regional healthcare, providing local patients with access to world-class surgical technology that has long been available in metropolitan centres.
Mr Donato welcomed the NSW State Budget commitment, describing it as a landmark achievement for regional healthcare and a significant win for patients across Central and Western NSW.
“This is a game-changing investment for our region and a major step forward for healthcare in country New South Wales,”
Mr Donato said.
“For years, I have been advocating for robotic-assisted surgery at Orange Health Service because regional patients deserve access to the same modern medical technology available in metropolitan hospitals.”
“Today’s funding announcement means patients will be able to access advanced surgical care closer to home, reducing the need for long and often stressful journeys to Sydney and other major centres while they are dealing with serious health challenges.”
Robotic-assisted surgery improves surgical precision, reduces recovery times, shortens hospital stays and lowers the risk of complications. It is particularly valuable in complex urological, colorectal and gynaecological cancer procedures, where improved visualisation and greater surgical dexterity can lead to better patient outcomes.
Mr Donato said the benefits of robotic surgery extended beyond patient care and would help secure the future of specialist services in the region.
“This investment is not just about purchasing a piece of equipment. It is about strengthening our entire healthcare system, supporting our surgeons and ensuring Orange remains a centre of excellence for specialist healthcare in regional Australia.”
“Access to cutting-edge technology is increasingly important in attracting and retaining highly skilled surgeons and healthcare professionals. This funding will help ensure local communities continue to have access to the specialists they need.”
The case for a robotic surgical system in Orange has long been supported by the region’s population and healthcare needs.
The Orange medical catchment potentially serves approximately 250,000 people across Central and Western NSW, a population base comparable to the catchment supported by robotic surgical systems elsewhere in the state.
Throughout his advocacy campaign, Mr Donato consistently argued that regional communities should not be disadvantaged when it comes to accessing modern healthcare technologies.
“I’ve relentlessly lobbied for a surgical robot for Orange because I believe people living west of the Great Divide deserve access to the very best healthcare, regardless of where they live.”
“For too long, patients from our region have had to leave their communities and support networks to access robotic surgery.
This investment will help change that.”