Chaffey Aged Care, a 100-bed residential aged care facility in Merbein – part of the rural city of Mildura – will join national provider Respect on 25 August, in a transition aimed at securing the long-term future of aged care services for the local community.
The acquisition marks Respect’s ninth aged care home to join its network in 2025, bringing its total to 36 homes across five states, including 15 in regional Victoria. The not-for-profit has become one of Australia’s largest regional aged care providers, known for its focus on rural communities and reinvestment in local services.
Respect CEO and Managing Director Jason Binder said the organisation was committed to building on Chaffey Aged Care’s strong local legacy.
“Like Chaffey Aged Care, we are passionate about delivering exceptional care for older people in rural communities,” Mr Binder said. “We are structured to specifically operate regional aged care homes at scale, ensuring the highest quality of care while maintaining financial sustainability.”
The move comes as many standalone regional providers struggle to remain viable due to workforce shortages, rising costs, and growing compliance demands. Around one in three older Australians live in regional or remote areas, where access to quality services can be limited.
Rural Care Australia Board Chair Angela Gransden said joining Respect was a strategic decision to ensure Chaffey’s future.
“Our commitment to providing the highest quality of care has made it unsustainable for us to continue independently,” Ms Gransden said. “We chose Respect because of its values, track record in regional aged care, and commitment to staff wellbeing — qualities we know align with the Merbein community.”
For Mr Binder, the transition carries personal significance. Raised in nearby Renmark, he has family ties to the Merbein area, recalling fond memories of his pop and uncle’s sawmill and time spent by the Murray River.
“It’s great to now have another location on the Murray, especially down this way where the river is wider. It’s home,” he said.
Respect has recently expanded into regional communities in Western Australia and Queensland.
