NSW Opposition leader Michael Daly made the announcement at incumbent Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison’s campaign launch at East Maitland Bowling Club on Monday.

“I am here to sign in blood [and] set in stone Labor’s commitment to get that hospital built – we will match the funding and timeline,” he said. 

“We will ensure it remains a public hospital.”

Mr Daly also praised the incumbent member’s dedication, particularly in advocating for the new hospital. 

“She didn’t need much mentoring because she had all the right ingredients to be a terrific member of parliament,” he said. 

“Jenny cares about people, and that’s what I admire most about her. The greatest achievement of Jenny’s, and all of yours, is Maitland Hospital.”

Speaking to packed room, Ms Aitchison said she was thrilled by Labor’s commitment to the new Maitland Hospital at Metford.

“We listen to our local communities, and we act to make sure that their lives are improved,” she said.

“The hospital has been a massive task for us … but we were able to prevail. It has been such a long campaign but we won. I wouldn’t be able to do it without all of you.”

In 2015, Ms Aitchison toppled the state election with a 18.8 swing, securing  62.45 per cent of votes compared to 37.55 per cent for the Liberal Party.

As for her strategy for the campaign, Ms Aitchison said she will continue to plug away and champion the causes for her community. 

But the city’s roads will be on the top of her agenda. 

“It’s about checking what the community’s priorities are. It’s silly for us to make commitments when we don’t know where it is up to with the government,” Ms Aitchison said. 

No other candidates have put their hands up for the impending state election – just over eight weeks away on Saturday, March 23.

While you're with us, do you know the Maitland Mercury is now offering breaking news alerts and tri-weekly email newsletters? Keep up-to-date with all the local news - sign up here.