A Beacon of Hope: Boodja Mia, WA’s Premier Paediatric Hospice

Western Australia is embarking on a groundbreaking journey with the commencement of construction on its first purpose-built paediatric hospice, Boodja Mia. Named after the Noongar word for ‘Sandcastles’, this facility is set to redefine paediatric palliative care in the state, offering a beacon of hope and support for families navigating the complexities of life-limiting conditions in children.

Located in the serene surroundings of Swanbourne, Boodja Mia emerges from a collaborative partnership between the Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) and the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation (PCHF). This initiative has been made possible through the generous backing of state and federal governments, alongside significant contributions from Lotterywest, the Western Australian community, and local businesses.

Boodja Mia is designed to be more than just a medical facility; it aims to be a ‘home away from home’ for its guests. WA Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson articulates the vision for the hospice as a central hub from which state-wide paediatric palliative care services will be coordinated. The hospice will provide not only around-the-clock clinical support but also end-of-life care, bereavement support, and respite accommodation, ensuring holistic care for children with life-limiting conditions.

The facility’s design is meticulously planned to cater to the needs of its guests and their families. It will house seven single-guest bedrooms, family suites, a bereavement suite complete with a private car bay, and communal areas like a hydrotherapy pool, fenced playground, garden spaces including a memorial garden, indoor play areas, and therapy and clinical spaces.

Enabling works are set to commence shortly, with main construction activities scheduled to start in April 2024. The hospice is anticipated to welcome its first families by late 2025, providing a much-needed sanctuary for those in their most challenging times. With a projected budget of $34 million for construction and fit-out, Boodja Mia represents a significant investment in the well-being of Western Australian families, affirming the community’s commitment to supporting each other through life’s most difficult journeys.