Senior Australians in Calare will benefit from the single largest investment in residential aged care infrastructure in Australia’s history.
A total of $150 million in capital grants has been allocated following the conclusion of the competitive 2020 Aged Care Approvals Round (ACAR).
It includes $1,837,060 for Three Tree Lodge at Lithgow, a 62-bed not-for-profit aged care service.
Member for Calare and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Andrew Gee, said the injection of funds for Lithgow’s Three Tree Lodge represented more than just bricks and mortar.
“Investing in local aged care infrastructure means we can improve the quality and safety of residential aged care from the ground up,” Minister Gee said.
“It offers peace-of-mind and security not only for local residents already in care but also those who are carefully considering the next phase of their life.”
“I’m delighted Lithgow’s Three Tree Lodge will be able to significantly expand its aged care services thanks to $1.83 million in ACAR funding.
“The grant will be put towards extending the Wattle residential wing, creating an additional seven beds for the facility.
“The Wattle extension will see the construction of five new bedrooms, a new kitchen and living space, and outdoor areas.
“Melaleuca House, an 8-bed residential care unit for people living with dementia, will also be extended through the construction of a new four bed residential respite facility.
“Four bedrooms with ensuites will be built, along with kitchen, living and dining areas, and access to a secure courtyard – with each space designed to help residents connect in a meaningful way with other people and the world around them.
“The development of the respite service at Melaleuca House will provide a safe, secure and comfortable residential stay for people living with dementia who are mainly being cared for at home.
“Melaleuca House, opened in 2019, was itself built by a $1.25 million dollar federal government grant.
The 2020 Aged Care Approvals Round funded 72 infrastructure projects across the country.
The 2020 ACAR also includes the allocation of over 4000 residential care places and more than 1000 short-term restorative care places worth a combined $380 million a year.
More than half of the new places were allocated to areas most in need, including in regional and remote Australia.
Information about the 2020 ACAR outcomes, including details of the successful providers is available at https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/2020-aged-care-approvals-round-acar
