Construction has commenced on Australia’s first $19.5 million dedicated palliative care hospice for young people living with an incurable illness.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian joined Member for Manly James Griffin and Federal Senator Andrew Bragg for the turning of the first sod.

Generous donor Kay Van Norton Poche, who has made the project possible, also rolled up her sleeves and grabbed a shovel to mark the start of the works.

Former Bear Cottage patients Matthew Van Hoek and Scott Green were also welcomed to the site, which they will be able to visit upon its completion.

Matthew’s mum Debbie Van Hoek said the new facility would provide a bridge for patients after they leave Manly’s Bear Cottage.

“There will be the respite for Matthew and he will be able to go and see his friends,” she said.

“It’s just going to make a world of difference to us.”

Construction of the hospice is scheduled for completion in late 2022 and is funded by the NSW and Federal Governments as well as generous community donations.

Health Infrastructure is working closely with the Northern Sydney Local Health District and expert clinicians to deliver the hospice, which will be located at the former Manly Hospital site on the North Head headland.

For further information and to support the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice, visit www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/Manly.