A Tradition of Excellence in Health Care

The establishment of a community hospital in Burnside was first suggested in August 1943 at a meeting of the Burnside Council's Post-War Reconstruction and Development Committee.

In November 1943, the Council adopted the Committee's recommendation that a hospital costing up to 100,000 pounds be built and that it become the area’s principal memorial to the fallen service personnel of the two World Wars.

In February 1944, the Mayor announced that local resident Mr Otto von Rieben had offered his property Attunga for this purpose. His generous offer was accepted unanimously by Council and a community fundraising campaign began to support the project.

In April 1949, von Rieben's home was converted into a convalescent hospital for 21 patients as the first part of the War Memorial Hospital scheme. It was closed in September 1956, having cared for around 1,400 patients.

Burnside War Memorial Hospital was opened on 26 October 1956, and treated its first patients in early November.

Over the ensuing years, the hospital has constantly upgraded and expanded its facilities, keeping pace with the latest medical technology and expertise.

Specialised diagnostic and treatment services now include a state-of-the-art Sleep Disorders Unit, Lung Function Unit, Diabetes Centre, Breast and Endometriosis Centres and a day chemotherapy unit.

Today, Burnside is a progressive, not-for-profit private hospital with a demonstrated commitment to maintaining its reputation as a quality provider of the highest standard of care and service delivery. During 2002 a multi-million dollar redevelopment of the hospital’s facilities was completed, setting the benchmark for private hospital accommodation in Adelaide.

Benefits include the provision of all single rooms with en-suite facilities to enhance patient comfort and privacy, improved amenities for visitors including more car-parking, upgraded maternity facilities, a café and a purpose-built adult Sleep Disorders Unit.

^ Back to Top