John Hunter Hospital appointments, Emergency, parking, shuttle and outpatient guide
John Hunter Hospital is a major public hospital in New Lambton Heights, Newcastle. This guide is written for patients, carers and visitors who need practical answers before calling, attending Emergency, finding the Royal Newcastle Centre, changing an outpatient appointment, using P2/P6 parking, checking visitor hours or planning transport.
Here you can quickly find the official address, main phone, outpatient contact centre, referral rules, clinic blocks, parking fees, concession rates, shuttle service, bus routes, visitor rules, interpreter support, Medicare cost notes, feedback contacts and step-by-step instructions without using this page only as a directory.
John Hunter Hospital address, phone number and urgent contact details
Main hospital
John Hunter Hospital
Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights NSW 2305
Main phone: (02) 4921 3000
Open 24 hours, 7 days
Outpatient appointments
John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service Contact Centre
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm
Immediate danger
Call 000 if someone is in immediate danger.
No referral is required for Emergency Department presentation.
For non-urgent advice, Healthdirect: 1800 022 222.
| Hospital name | John Hunter Hospital |
|---|---|
| Main address | Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights NSW 2305, Australia |
| Main phone | (02) 4921 3000 |
| Opening hours | 24 hours, 7 days |
| Emergency Department | No referral is required for presentation at the Emergency Department. Call 000 if you or someone with you is in immediate danger. |
| Outpatient Service Contact Centre | (02) 4922 3912, Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm |
| Referrals | Referrals are required for all outpatient appointments, including virtual care. Emergency presentations do not need a referral. |
| Telehealth / virtual care | Virtual care may be available for some outpatient services. A referral is required. |
| Wheelchair access | Yes. John Hunter Hospital is listed as wheelchair accessible. |
| Best first step | If you have an appointment, use the letter/SMS first. Confirm whether you need the North block or South block in the Royal Newcastle Centre and whether P6 parking is best for your visit. |
John Hunter Hospital map, Royal Newcastle Centre and campus directions
John Hunter Hospital is located on Lookout Road in New Lambton Heights. The campus is across multiple levels, so patients should check the appointment letter, ward instruction or outpatient reminder before travelling.
| Where you need to go | Best practical direction | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Department | Follow Emergency signs after entering the hospital campus. P2 is listed as ideal for Emergency Department access. | Call 000 for immediate danger instead of driving yourself if unsafe. |
| Outpatient clinics | Outpatient services are in the Royal Newcastle Centre at John Hunter Hospital. P6 gives direct access to the Outpatient Service building; take the lift to Level 2. | North block or South block, clinic name, appointment time and whether imaging/pathology is needed first. |
| Children’s Hospital | P2 is listed as ideal for Children’s Hospital access. | Confirm whether you need John Hunter Hospital or John Hunter Children’s Hospital. |
| Ward visit | Use the main hospital contact or ward instructions. Visiting is generally 8:00am to 8:00pm with a 1:00pm to 3:00pm rest period. | Ward-specific restrictions, rest-period rules, mask requirements and patient condition. |
| Park-and-ride shuttle | Use the free shuttle between McDonald Jones Stadium and John Hunter Hospital on weekdays if suitable. | Shuttle runs Monday to Friday, 6:00am to 6:00pm and drops outside the Royal Newcastle Centre. |
Before you go: choose Emergency, outpatient, virtual care or ward visit
Use Emergency now
- Call 000 if there is immediate danger, severe injury or life-threatening symptoms.
- No referral is needed for Emergency Department presentation.
- Emergency patients are assessed by clinical urgency, not by who arrives first.
- Bring Medicare/DVA/private/claim details if it is safe and practical.
Use outpatient services
- Outpatient appointments need a referral from a GP, specialist, other health professional or hospital pathway.
- Call (02) 4922 3912 for referral and appointment enquiries.
- Allow up to 2 weeks after a referral is received before contacting the service about processing.
- Arrive about 15 minutes early and allow up to 4 hours for the appointment.
Ask about virtual care
- Virtual care may allow a secure video appointment from home, work, GP clinic, aged care facility or local hospital.
- A referral is required for virtual care appointments.
- For virtual care information, call the Outpatient Service Contact Centre on (02) 4922 3912.
Plan a ward visit
- Visitors are generally allowed 8:00am to 8:00pm, 7 days a week.
- There is a rest period from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
- Contact the ward for specific visiting rules before travelling.
- Do not visit if unwell or recently exposed to respiratory infection unless hospital staff advise otherwise.
Outpatient appointments, referrals, waiting list and booking changes
John Hunter Hospital outpatient clinics are for specialist healthcare when a patient needs treatment, examination or review but does not need to stay overnight. The appointment process is referral-based and clinically triaged.
Micro guide: how to get an outpatient appointment
| Step | What happens | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Referral is created | A GP, specialist, health professional, hospital discharge team or Emergency pathway may refer you. | Ask your referrer which clinic you are being referred to and whether the referral includes the necessary reports. |
| 2. Referral enters the system | The outpatient team processes the referral. The official page asks patients to allow up to 2 weeks before contacting them about processing. | Wait up to 2 weeks unless your condition changes or your referrer says it is urgent. |
| 3. Clinical triage | A specialist clinician decides how urgent the issue is and the timeframe in which you should be seen. | If symptoms worsen, contact your referring GP/health practitioner. If urgent or life-threatening, call 000 or go to Emergency. |
| 4. Appointment or waiting list | You may receive an appointment straight away or be placed on a waiting list. | Keep phone, email and postal address up to date by calling (02) 4922 3912 if details change. |
| 5. Appointment notice | Staff may contact you by phone, email, SMS or letter. A text reminder is sent the day before where mobile details are available. | Check whether your clinic is in North block or South block and whether you need imaging/pathology first. |
Change or cancel an outpatient appointment
| Situation | Action | Important warning |
|---|---|---|
| You cannot attend | Call the Outpatient Service Contact Centre on (02) 4922 3912 as soon as possible. | Because of long wait times, the hospital may not be able to reschedule quickly. |
| You no longer need the appointment | You or your GP should contact Outpatients so the appointment can be released. | This helps another patient receive care sooner. |
| You miss the appointment | Contact the clinic immediately. | If you do not attend and the hospital does not hear from you, you may be discharged from the clinic. |
| Your condition changes while waiting | Advise your GP or referring health practitioner immediately. | Your GP can update the clinic if your clinical priority may need review. |
| Your contact details change | Call (02) 4922 3912. | Most notifications are mailed, emailed, called or sent by SMS. Old contact details can make you miss your appointment. |
What to bring to your outpatient appointment
Documents and cards
- Appointment letter, email, text reminder or clinic instructions
- Medicare card
- Veterans’ Affairs card if applicable
- Workers compensation or motor accident details if relevant
- Private health fund membership details if you have cover
- Referral letter or paperwork if requested
Health information
- Recent reports, X-rays, scans or test results
- Current medication list
- Medicines you may need during a long visit
- Allergy information
- Questions for the specialist team
- Mobility aid, glasses, hearing aids or communication support tools
Royal Newcastle Centre outpatient clinics: North block and South block
The John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service is located in the Royal Newcastle Centre. Appointment letters and SMS reminders should tell you whether to attend North block or South block.
| Clinic / service | Block / official location note | Referral or appointment contact |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiology | North block. Follow-up enquiries may go to unit secretaries for specific cardiology doctors. | Initial referral enquiries: Outpatient Contact Centre (02) 4922 3912. |
| Colorectal clinic | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Dermatology | North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Diabetes | Diabetes Unit. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Call (02) 4922 3370, (02) 4923 6378 or (02) 4985 5135. Enquiries only: HNELHD-DiabetesServices@health.nsw.gov.au. Do not email referrals. |
| Endocrinology, not diabetes | North block. Does not include diabetes appointments. | Endocrinology Unit Secretary: (02) 4921 4380. Email: HNELHD-JHHDiabetesEndocrineAdmin@health.nsw.gov.au. |
| ENT | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. The Outpatient Service cannot address ENT Aboriginal Medical Service enquiries. |
| Gastroenterology | North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| General Medicine | North block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | General Medicine Unit Secretary: (02) 4921 3541. |
| General Surgery | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Hunter Integrated Pain Services | South and North block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Call (02) 4922 3435 or email HNELHD-HIPS@health.nsw.gov.au. |
| Immunology, allergy and infectious disease | North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Neurology, including Stroke Service | North block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Neurology Unit Secretary: (02) 4921 3490. |
| Neurosurgery | South and North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Ophthalmology | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Oral Maxillofacial | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Orthopaedics, fracture and hand clinics | South block. Includes fracture clinics, orthopaedic consultant clinics and hand clinic. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Plastics and reconstructive surgery | South and North block. Listed as a tertiary specialist-only referral service. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Rehabilitation | North block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Call (02) 4921 4840 or (02) 4922 3065. Email: HNELHD-JHHRehabMedicineRNC@health.nsw.gov.au. |
| Renal and Nephrology | North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Respiratory Medicine | North block. Includes asthma, cystic fibrosis and Mantoux clinics. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Respiratory Unit Secretary: (02) 4921 3470. |
| Rheumatology | North block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Stomal Therapy | South block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Call John Hunter Hospital on (02) 4921 3000 and ask them to page 36206. Email: HNELHD-JHHStomal@health.nsw.gov.au. |
| Transplant and vascular access | South block. Outpatient Service does not manage referrals or appointments for this service. | Call (02) 4921 4326. |
| Trauma Clinic | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Urology | South block. Includes urology consult and procedure clinics. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Vascular Surgery | South block. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
Hospital services, maternity, surgery, mental health and specialty care
John Hunter Hospital provides advanced medical care for Newcastle and surrounding regions, including emergency services, surgery and maternity care. Its outpatient and specialist services cover many adult and child health pathways across Hunter New England.
| Service area | Useful patient detail | Best action |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency care | Open 24 hours, 7 days. No referral is required for Emergency Department presentation. | Call 000 for immediate danger. |
| Surgery | The hospital provides surgical services and specialist clinic follow-up through outpatient pathways. | Follow pre-admission, fasting and medication instructions from your surgical team. |
| Maternity, pregnancy, birth and baby | John Hunter Hospital is listed for maternity care and related pregnancy, birth and baby services. | Confirm maternity clinic/ward instructions and visitor rules before arrival. |
| Cardiology / heart health | Cardiology outpatient enquiries may use the Outpatient Contact Centre for initial referrals, with follow-up secretary numbers for specific doctors. | Use the number on your appointment letter for follow-up questions. |
| Respiratory medicine | Includes asthma, cystic fibrosis and Mantoux clinics. | Call Respiratory Unit Secretary on (02) 4921 3470 for referral/appointment enquiries. |
| Neurology and stroke | Neurology Clinic includes Stroke Service and is located in North block. | Call Neurology Unit Secretary on (02) 4921 3490. |
| Renal / nephrology | Renal clinic is located in North block and referrals are clinically triaged. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Orthopaedics, fracture and hand | South block clinics include registrar-led fracture clinics, orthopaedic consultant clinics and hand clinics. | Outpatient Contact Centre: (02) 4922 3912. |
| Mental health | Hunter New England LHD lists the Mental Health Line for 24-hour, 7-day mental health support. | Call Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 for urgent mental health support. |
| Interpreter and multicultural support | NSW Health Care Interpreter Service provides professional interpreters for people who are deaf or have limited English. | Ask the clinic early to arrange an on-site, telephone or video-link interpreter. |
| Virtual care | Telehealth may let patients connect securely by video from home, work, GP, aged care facility or local community hospital. | Ask the outpatient team whether your appointment is eligible for virtual care. |
Medicare, outpatient costs, overseas visitors and billing questions
Australian resident with Medicare
The official outpatient information says there is no cost for a John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service appointment for Australian residents with a valid Medicare card.
Diagnostics linked to outpatient care
Hospital diagnostic tests including pathology and X-ray are generally performed through the NSW public health system and covered by Medicare.
Overseas visitor without Medicare
A fee applies if you are an overseas visitor without a current Medicare card. The official outpatient page says this fee must be paid in full on the day of the appointment.
Private specialist option
If you do not want to wait for a public outpatient appointment, you can ask your referrer about private specialist options. Private consultation charges may apply.
Billing questions to ask before attending
- “I have a Medicare card. Is this appointment fully covered through the public outpatient service?”
- “I am an overseas visitor. What fee must I pay on the day?”
- “Will I need pathology, X-ray, imaging or a procedure during the visit?”
- “Do I need to bring workers compensation or motor accident claim details?”
- “Should I bring private health fund information, even if this is a public hospital appointment?”
- “If my appointment changes to virtual care, does any billing rule change?”
John Hunter Hospital parking: P2, P6, fees, concessions and shuttle
There are two large public car parks at John Hunter Hospital. Follow the blue P2 or P6 signs when entering the campus.
| Parking / transport option | Best for | Access note |
|---|---|---|
| P2 | Visitors, Emergency Department and Children’s Hospital access | Single-level car park. Open 24 hours, 7 days. |
| P6 | Outpatient appointments | Multi-storey car park. Entry closes at 5:00pm, but exits are available anytime except on weekends and public holidays. It gives direct access to the Outpatient Service building; take the lift to Level 2. |
| Disabled parking | Patients and visitors with mobility needs | Use wheelchair-accessible parking options and ask the hospital which entrance/lift is easiest for your appointment. |
| Park-and-ride shuttle | Patients, visitors and staff who can use McDonald Jones Stadium shuttle access | Free shuttle between John Hunter Hospital and McDonald Jones Stadium, dropping off outside the Royal Newcastle Centre. Runs Monday to Friday, 6:00am to 6:00pm. |
Public parking fees listed by NSW Government
| Parking duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| First 20 minutes | Free |
| 20 minutes to 1 hour | $2.50 |
| 1 to 2 hours | $5 |
| 2 to 3 hours | $7.50 |
| Over 3 hours | $10 |
| 7-day ticket | $28 |
| Lost ticket | $10 |
Concession parking fees listed by NSW Government
| Concession option | Fee |
|---|---|
| 0 to 3 hours | Free |
| Single exit | $6.80 |
| 3-day ticket | $13.50 |
| 7-day ticket | $27.10 |
Who may qualify for concession parking?
| Eligible group from NSW Health concession guidance | Practical note |
|---|---|
| Mobility Parking Scheme permit holders | Bring the government-issued permit/card. |
| Pensioner Concession Card holders | Bring the valid card. |
| Gold Veterans Affairs Card holders | Bring the valid card. |
| Health Care Card holders | Bring the valid card. |
| Ongoing cancer treatment patients | Ask staff where to validate your ticket for the concession rate. |
| Patients/carers attending a course of treatment for more than one week | Ask before paying if your treatment course qualifies. |
| Patients/carers attending more frequently than twice weekly | This includes carers of long-term patients who visit frequently. |
| Cardiac rehabilitation, daily dressing and health promotion class attendees | Ask the clinic or information desk how to validate the ticket. |
Bus, taxi, shuttle and IPTAAS travel support
| Transport option | Details | When it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | Bus routes 13, 11, 26 and 42 stop at the main entrance of John Hunter Hospital. | Useful if you want to avoid parking or expect a long appointment. |
| Park-and-ride shuttle | Free shuttle between McDonald Jones Stadium and John Hunter Hospital. Monday to Friday, 6:00am to 6:00pm. | Useful for outpatient appointments, long visits and busy parking periods. |
| Taxi | Newcastle Taxis can be contacted on 132 227. | Useful for drop-off when mobility, time or distance is an issue. |
| IPTAAS | Hunter New England LHD lists IPTAAS on 1800 478 227. | Useful for eligible isolated patients who need travel/accommodation assistance for specialist medical treatment. |
| Healthdirect | 24-hour health advice line: 1800 022 222. | Useful for non-emergency health advice when you are unsure what care pathway to use. |
John Hunter Hospital visiting hours, rest period and visitor safety
| Visitor topic | Current guidance to plan around | Practical action |
|---|---|---|
| General visiting hours | Visitors are generally allowed from 8:00am to 8:00pm, 7 days a week. | Contact the ward directly for special conditions, intensive care, maternity, children’s services or outbreak changes. |
| Patient rest period | Rest period is generally 1:00pm to 3:00pm. | Plan visits outside the rest period unless the ward has given permission. |
| Ward-specific rules | Some wards may restrict visiting based on patient condition, infection risk, patient request or operational needs. | Call the main hospital number and ask for the ward before travelling. |
| Cold/flu or respiratory symptoms | Visitor rules may restrict people with respiratory symptoms or recent exposure. | Do not visit when unwell unless staff say it is essential and safe. |
| Support person | Some patients may need a support person for communication, disability, behaviour, cognition or care reasons. | Discuss support-person needs with the ward or outpatient clinic before arrival. |
Interpreter support, wheelchair access and virtual care
Interpreter support
- NSW Health Care Interpreter Service supports communication for people who are deaf or have limited English.
- John Hunter Hospital may arrange on-site interpreters.
- If no on-site interpreter can attend, telephone or video-link interpreting can be arranged.
- Tell the clinic early which language or communication support is needed.
Access support
- The hospital is listed as wheelchair accessible.
- Ask which entrance, lift or car park is easiest for your clinic or ward.
- For outpatient care, ask if your appointment is suitable for virtual care if travel is difficult.
- Keep mobility aids, glasses, hearing aids and communication supports with you.
Feedback, complaints, mental health line and useful Hunter New England contacts
| Need | Contact | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| John Hunter Hospital main number | (02) 4921 3000 | General hospital enquiries, ward transfers and service directions. |
| Outpatient Service Contact Centre | (02) 4922 3912, Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:00pm | Outpatient referral, appointment, change/cancel, contact details or virtual care questions. |
| Mental Health Line | 1800 011 511, 24 hours, 7 days | Urgent mental health support in NSW. |
| Healthdirect Australia | 1800 022 222, 24 hours, 7 days | Health advice line when it is not immediately life-threatening. |
| IPTAAS | 1800 478 227 | Travel/accommodation assistance questions for eligible isolated patients. |
| Oral Health Contact Centre | 1800 679 336 | Dental appointments and oral health service information. |
| Feedback email | HNELHD-SRC@health.nsw.gov.au | Compliments, complaints and service feedback. |
| Feedback line | 1800 605 172, Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm | Phone feedback, compliments or complaints. |
| Postal feedback | Strategic Relations and Communications, Locked Bag 1, New Lambton NSW 2305 | Written feedback or complaint letters. |
Questions to ask before visiting John Hunter Hospital
For appointments
- “Has my referral been received and triaged?”
- “Is my clinic in North block or South block?”
- “Should I arrive at the Royal Newcastle Centre and use P6?”
- “Is the appointment face-to-face, telephone or virtual care?”
- “Do I need X-ray, pathology or imaging before seeing the doctor?”
- “What reports, medication list or previous scans should I bring?”
For cost, access and visitors
- “Is there any cost if I am an overseas visitor without Medicare?”
- “Can an interpreter be arranged for my language or Auslan needs?”
- “Can I use concession parking and where should I validate my ticket?”
- “Should I use P2, P6 or the McDonald Jones Stadium shuttle?”
- “What are the current visiting rules for the ward?”
- “Who should I call if my condition changes while waiting?”
Official John Hunter Hospital links for actions and verification
| User task | Official link |
|---|---|
| Check official hospital address, phone, referrals, opening hours and parking | NSW Government John Hunter Hospital page |
| Outpatient referral, clinic list, appointment changes and virtual care | Hunter New England outpatient services |
| Contact Hunter New England, feedback and complaints | Hunter New England LHD contact page |
| Check NSW public hospital parking concessions | NSW Health hospital parking |
| Join outpatient virtual care appointment | Hunter New England virtual care waiting area |
| Bus planning for Newcastle public transport | Newcastle Transport |
| Taxi booking | Newcastle Taxis |
| Health advice line | Healthdirect Australia |
| Related hospital guide on this site | Alfred Hospital guide |
John Hunter Hospital FAQs
What is the address of John Hunter Hospital?
John Hunter Hospital is located on Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights NSW 2305, Australia.
What is the main phone number for John Hunter Hospital?
The main phone number for John Hunter Hospital is (02) 4921 3000.
Is John Hunter Hospital open 24 hours?
Yes. John Hunter Hospital is listed as open 24 hours, 7 days.
Do I need a referral for John Hunter Hospital Emergency Department?
No referral is required for presentation at the Emergency Department. If you or someone with you is in immediate danger, call 000.
How do I contact John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Services?
Call the John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service Contact Centre on (02) 4922 3912, Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm.
Do outpatient appointments at John Hunter Hospital need a referral?
Yes. Referrals are required for all outpatient appointments, including virtual care. A GP, specialist, health professional, hospital discharge team or Emergency Department pathway may refer you.
Is there a cost for a John Hunter Hospital outpatient appointment?
For Australian residents with a valid Medicare card, the official outpatient information says there is no cost for a John Hunter Hospital Outpatient Service appointment. Fees may apply for overseas visitors without a current Medicare card.
Where should I park for John Hunter Hospital outpatient appointments?
P6 is recommended for outpatient appointments because it provides direct access to the Outpatient Service building. Take the lift to Level 2.
What are the visitor hours at John Hunter Hospital?
Visitors are generally allowed from 8:00am to 8:00pm, 7 days a week, with a rest period from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Contact the ward directly for specific visiting hours.
What should I bring to a John Hunter Hospital appointment?
Bring your Medicare or Veterans’ Affairs card, workers compensation or motor accident details if relevant, recent reports, X-rays or test results, a current medication list, private health fund details if you have them, and any referral or appointment paperwork.
Source and update note
This guide is based on official NSW Government and Hunter New England Local Health District pages for John Hunter Hospital contact details, outpatient services, referrals, parking, visiting hours, fees, interpreter support and feedback. It also uses NSW Health public hospital concession parking guidance. Hospital services, parking charges, visitor rules, doctor availability and clinic processes can change, so confirm urgent or appointment-specific details with John Hunter Hospital before travelling.
This page is an informational hospital guide only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations.