Alter or extend a health facility licenced premises

This application is used for updating an existing licence to undertake physical changes, building works, or capital works at a private hospital or private day procedure centre. It ensures that any alterations or extensions comply with all relevant regulatory and safety standards.

Key timelines

  • Applications are typically processed within 90 days after all required documentation is received to grant design approval; however, this timeframe may vary depending on the complexity of the application
  • Construction must begin within 1 year of design approval and be completed within 3 years. If delays occur, an extension may be requested; otherwise, a new application must be submitted
  • Final approval may vary depending on the outcomes of inspections and any associated remedial actions

Construction or capital works must not commence until design approval is granted.

Areas subject to this approval must not be used to deliver services until final approval is granted.

Application process

  1. Prepare application – Gather all required documents to support the proposed alterations or extensions. The level of documentation depends on the scope of the changes.

    Minor changes: Small internal alterations or layout adjustments may require limited documentation

    Major changes: Large extensions, new wings, or significant structural work require:
  1. Submit application – Complete and submit the online application form with supporting documentation
  2. Pay application fee – An invoice will be issued. Payment must be made before the application is reviewed
  3. Assessment and review – The application is checked for completeness. Additional documents may be requested if needed
  4. Design approval – Once approved, construction or works may commence
  5. Building works – All works must be undertaken in accordance with the approved plans and applicable standards
  6. Inspection and certification – Once construction is complete, a commissioning inspection will confirm compliance with facility standards.
    Applicants must:
    • Provide commissioning documents and certificates of compliance for systems such as gas, chemical, electrical, and equipment. Refer to the Health Facility Commissioning checklist (PDF 299KB) for details
    • Give at least four weeks’ notice for inspection scheduling

If the inspection identifies incomplete work or remedial actions due to non-adherence to approved plans or relevant standards, additional inspections may be required. This may result in delays to the licensing process

  1. Final approval – Once the inspection is complete and any required remedial actions are addressed, final approval is granted
  2. Licence issued – A new or updated licence may be issued depending on the nature of the changes and whether they involve new areas of the facility

Prescribed fees

Private Hospital

  • Alter or extend licensed premises (including building works) - $3,972
  • Additional inspection of premises - $2,837

Private Day Procedure Centre

  • Alter or extend licensed premises (including building works) - $3,972
  • Additional inspection of premises - $1,702

Invoices are issued after application submission. Payment options will be detailed on the invoice.

*Final inspection fee is included in the application fee. Additional inspections due to incomplete work or remedial actions will incur extra charges.

Apply online

To start or resume a licence application online, use the online application portal.

For further information contact

Clinical Regulation Policy and Licensing team
Clinical Regulation Branch
SA Health - Department for Health and Wellbeing
PO Box 6, Rundle Mall Adelaide SA 5000

Email: Health.Licensing@sa.gov.au
Phone: (08) 8226 7100 (Available Monday to Friday, business hours)