Lions Eye Institute announces $14.1 million redevelopment of Western Australia Theatre Complex
The Lions Eye Institute is proud to announce a $14.1 million redevelopment of its theatre complex at the Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre (QEIIMC) in Nedlands.
This marks the Institute’s largest investment it has made in its facilities 30 years, underscoring its commitment to delivering world-class eye health care and innovation for Western Australians.
Designed by leading architects Hames Sharley, the redevelopment will transform the existing facilities into a state-of-the-art ophthalmic theatre complex.
Key upgrades include a complete redesign of the theatre complex, increasing the size of two operating theatres, creating a dedicated Laser Vision suite and modernisation of outpatient spaces to improve comfort and capacity.
“This redevelopment represents a significant milestone in the Institute’s history, as we continue to invest in the future of eye care,” said Dr Glen Power, Managing Director of the Lions Eye Institute.
“By modernising this complex, patient facilities will be made more comfortable and efficient, with new reception and waiting areas, new ophthalmic testing areas and shared facilities.” Professor Chandra Balaratnasingam, Medical Director of the Lions Eye Institute, emphasised the community impact of this investment:
“This redevelopment is a pivotal step in modernising our clinical capabilities, including purpose-built facilities for the latest Schwind Smart Sight Laser technology. The upgraded theatres and outpatient spaces will enable us to treat more complex cases and increase surgical throughput, while also enhancing care for young patients across the state.
As a medical research institute, we have deliberately designed the new theatre complex to integrate clinical care with our laboratories and data platforms, creating a seamless pathway for translational research that will range from discovery science and prototyping through to first-in-human evaluation.
This will accelerate investigator-initiated studies and industry partnerships, expand our capacity for advanced ocular imaging and biobanking, and ensure Western Australian patients can access cutting-edge therapies sooner.”
Construction is set to commence in August 2025. The upgraded facility will also see greater numbers of paediatric patients.
IMAGE: Visuals of the Nedlands theatre complex redevelopment
