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EMERGENCY

In an emergency, always call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Ambulances are the safest way to be assessed, treated and transported to the right hospital for the care you need.

Triple zero (000) is a free call from any phone, mobile or phone box.

For less severe but still urgent situations, go to an Emergency Department.

There are 12 public hospital Emergency Departments in Northern NSW Local Health District and they are all available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Emergency departments are located at:

Kamala welcome
Published: 13 May 2025

The team at Kamala Child and Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit understand that entering a mental health ward may be daunting for young people.  

This concern was highlighted through consumer feedback and insights gathered from the YES and CES surveys*, where young people expressed fears about coming to Kamala – particularly around not knowing who would be involved in their care or what the ward itself would be like.

Tess Dardengo, clinical nurse specialist at Kamala Mental Health Inpatient Unit explained that for many, the uncertainty surrounding what to expect led to anxiety and hesitation.  

“The Kamala team worked diligently to create a supportive and informative solution – a video specifically for potential young inpatients," Tess said.  

“It’s a comprehensive look at what they can expect, easing some of the common anxieties that arise before and during their journey to recovery.

“Some of our team also stepped out of their comfort zones to appear in front of the camera to introduce themselves and explain how they’ll support a young person.”

To help with familiarisation, the video provides a walk-through of the space, different activities and the therapeutic resources available to support their recovery goals. It aims to demystify the inpatient experience, reduce stigma, and foster a sense of comfort and belonging.  

“Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the unknown, viewers can take comfort in knowing that the Kamala team is there to support them every step of the way, from admission to discharge,” Tess said.

“Through this thoughtful new resource, we hope to not only inform, but empower young people to feel more at ease as they embark on their path to recovery, as well as address their unique needs.

“At Kamala, every young person’s journey is important and we’re here to make it a little less intimidating.”

Watch the Kamala welcome video here >>

* Youth Engagement Survey (YES) and Carer Engagement Survey (CES)