Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in Australia — but the country is also home to some of the most advanced cardiac care facilities in the world. From innovative heart surgery to life-saving transplant programs, these hospitals combine world-class technology with exceptional medical expertise.
If you or a loved one are searching for the best heart hospitals in Australia, here are the top five that stand out for excellence, innovation, and patient care.
1. The Prince Charles Hospital – Brisbane, Queensland
Specialties: Cardiac surgery, heart and lung transplants, congenital heart disease
Located in Brisbane’s north, The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) is widely recognised as Australia’s leading heart hospital. It serves as the nation’s referral centre for complex cardiac, thoracic, and transplant surgery. The hospital’s dedicated heart and lung program performs hundreds of transplants and thousands of cardiac procedures every year.
Why It Stands Out:
- Australia’s most comprehensive cardiothoracic centre
- Specialist programs for heart failure and congenital heart conditions
- Cutting-edge facilities for minimally invasive surgery and cardiac imaging
- Strong partnerships with the University of Queensland for heart research
TPCH is often described as “the heart of Queensland” — delivering top-quality cardiac care supported by decades of expertise.
2. MonashHeart & The Victorian Heart Hospital – Melbourne, Victoria
Specialties: Interventional cardiology, imaging, cardiac surgery, heart research
MonashHeart, part of the Monash Health network, recently opened The Victorian Heart Hospital — Australia’s first dedicated heart hospital. This purpose-built facility brings together treatment, education, and research in one location, offering patients access to the latest innovations in cardiovascular care.
Why It Stands Out:
- Ranked among the Top 50 Heart Hospitals in the World (Newsweek 2025)
- Houses advanced cardiac catheterisation and hybrid surgical suites
- Specialises in arrhythmia management, valve repair, and heart imaging
- Deep integration with Monash University’s heart research programs
This hospital symbolises the future of Australian cardiac medicine — combining innovation, technology, and compassionate care under one roof.
3. St Vincent’s Hospital – Sydney, New South Wales
Specialties: Heart and lung transplants, cardiac surgery, heart failure management
St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney made history in 1968 when it performed Australia’s first heart transplant. Today, it remains a global leader in cardiac surgery and transplant medicine. Its close partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute ensures patients have access to world-leading clinical trials and new therapies.
Why It Stands Out:
- Pioneered Australia’s heart transplant program
- Offers full cardiac surgery and heart failure services
- Highly skilled team for minimally invasive and robotic cardiac procedures
- World-class research and innovation through Victor Chang Institute
St Vincent’s has earned an international reputation for saving lives through advanced heart treatments and compassionate care.
4. The Alfred Hospital – Melbourne, Victoria
Specialties: Complex cardiac surgery, ECMO, heart and lung transplants
The Alfred Hospital is a cornerstone of Australian healthcare and one of the most advanced tertiary hospitals in the country. It’s best known for its heart and lung transplant program, intensive cardiac care, and pioneering use of ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) — life-saving heart-lung support technology.
Why It Stands Out:
- One of Australia’s largest cardiac ICUs
- Advanced facilities for mechanical heart and valve surgery
- High survival rates in transplant and emergency cardiac care
- Affiliation with Monash University for ongoing cardiac research
When it comes to high-risk or critical heart cases, The Alfred is often the hospital of choice for specialists nationwide.
5. St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital – Brisbane, Queensland
Specialties: Interventional cardiology, cardiac imaging, heart surgery
St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital is Queensland’s top private heart hospital. Recognised by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) as a Cardiac Centre of Excellence, it provides world-class private cardiac care with quick access to diagnosis and surgery.
Why It Stands Out:
- 24/7 emergency cardiac catheterisation lab
- Expertise in angioplasty, stenting, and open-heart surgery
- First private hospital in Queensland to perform open-heart surgery
- Excellent patient comfort and short waiting times
For those seeking top-tier cardiac treatment in a private setting, St Andrew’s offers both quality and convenience.
🇦🇺 Summary: Australia’s Leading Heart Hospitals (2025)
| Rank | Hospital | Location | Key Expertise |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Prince Charles Hospital | Brisbane | Cardiac surgery & transplants |
| 2 | MonashHeart / Victorian Heart Hospital | Melbourne | Innovation & research excellence |
| 3 | St Vincent’s Hospital | Sydney | Heart transplants & surgery |
| 4 | The Alfred Hospital | Melbourne | Advanced ICU & ECMO |
| 5 | St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital | Brisbane | Private cardiac care excellence |
How to Choose the Right Heart Hospital
Choosing the right heart hospital can depend on your specific condition and personal preferences. Here are a few tips:
- Specialisation: Look for hospitals that treat your specific condition — whether arrhythmia, heart failure, or valve disease.
- Experience: Hospitals that perform a high number of procedures typically have better outcomes.
- Technology: Opt for centres equipped with hybrid theatres, catheterisation labs, and advanced imaging.
- Accessibility: Consider proximity, waiting times, and whether the hospital is public or private.
- Rehabilitation & Aftercare: Good follow-up programs are crucial for long-term heart health.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s healthcare system offers some of the most advanced heart hospitals in the world, with a focus on research, innovation, and compassionate care. From the cutting-edge Victorian Heart Hospital in Melbourne to the world-renowned Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, patients can find exceptional treatment no matter where they are.