Transit Lounge

AusHFG is pleased to announce the publication of a new HPU 630 Transit Lounge (Version 1.0, October 2026) on the AusHFG website. 

This new HPU provides planning and design guidance for Transit Lounges and recognises their role in supporting patient flow, including the movement of patients on the day of discharge and, where applicable, patients arriving for admission, transfer or other health services.  It has been developed through consultation with an Expert Reference Group comprising representatives from Australian and New Zealand jurisdictions. 

It provides guidance across key areas including: 

• models of care, patient pathways and operational considerations
• location and functional relationships
• patient bays and supporting clinical and staff areas
• patient drop-off, pick-up, parking and wayfinding
• person-centred design, cultural safety and support for carers
• infection prevention and control
• safety, security and building services
• ICT and digital enablement
• indicative Schedules of Accommodation for 12-bed and 24-bed Transit Lounge scenarios.

The new HPU also emphasises welcoming and culturally safe environments, accessible wayfinding and consideration of patients with different mobility, communication and support needs.