A modern, secure and purpose-built health environment for children and families in crisis.

SHAPE successfully delivered a comprehensive upgrade for the Child at Risk Health Unit at The Canberra Hospital in Canberra, creating a more functional, secure and welcoming environment for children and families in crisis. The project was designed to improve the unit’s ability to support sensitive care and specialist services, while also enhancing the experience for staff and visitors.

The refurbishment introduced a wide range of new and upgraded spaces tailored to the needs of the service. These included a new front entry and landscaping, three consult rooms, an interview and observation room, three separate interview rooms, a family therapy room, a meeting room, offices for 18 staff members, an eight-person office for the family violence unit, staff break-out areas and significantly increased storage. The facility also features a new reception area, an ambulant toilet and shower, and a secure compactus room.

A strong focus of the project was creating a safe, private and supportive setting for care. SHAPE delivered an external courtyard with custom fencing, furniture and softfall, providing a secure outdoor space that complements the internal environment. Privacy was carefully considered throughout the upgrade, with both acoustic and visual confidentiality built into the design and delivery.

The works also included asbestos remediation and important base building upgrades to security, mechanical, electrical and in-ground hydraulic services. These elements were managed alongside the fitout to ensure the facility was not only visually transformed, but also supported by the infrastructure needed for long-term performance, safety and reliability.

The result is a modern and purpose-built health facility that supports the critical work of the Child at Risk Health Unit. With improved amenity, greater functionality and carefully considered privacy and security measures, the upgraded space is well equipped to provide care and support for children and families when they need it most.