Ahead of the state’s election on March 8, WA Labor has unveiled a significant $140 million aged care package aimed at expanding facilities, increasing aged care beds, and improving health outcomes for older Western Australians. The initiative seeks to alleviate pressure on the state’s healthcare system while pioneering new models of care.
A major component of the package is a $100 million low-interest loan facility designed to help providers deliver more concessional aged care beds across the state. The funding will support the expansion of existing facilities and refurbishment of unused ones, with an estimated 500 additional beds expected to ease the strain on hospitals
Russell Bricknell who leads WA provider Juniper welcomed the announcement.
“Today’s announcement is excellent news for the Western Australian community, with a loan arrangement providing the underpinning financials to create more accommodation options and increase supply that is so sorely needed by older Western Australians.”
Russell Bricknell, CEO, Juniper
Also announced are ‘Integrated Older Adult Care Hubs’ in three locations. These hubs will offer comprehensive services for older adults with chronic and complex conditions, enabling them to remain well in the community and avoid unnecessary hospitalisations.
The hubs will include:
- Clinical services from GPs, geriatric specialists, physiotherapists, and psychologists.
- Palliative care services.
- Dementia support, including memory clinics and advanced care planning.
- Assistance for families navigating aged care services.
State’s first dementia action plan
A re-elected Cook Labor Government will invest $1 million to establish WA’s first Dementia Action Plan. The plan will introduce hospital staff training, a public awareness campaign to support families managing dementia, dementia-friendly designs in new hospitals, and a review of existing services to enhance accessibility.
Investment in First Nations aged care
WA Labor has also committed $5 million in grants and a $10 million low-interest loan to support Sister Kate’s Aged Care facility in Queens Park (near Perth City). This 90-100-bed facility will offer culturally sensitive care for Aboriginal people, making it the first of its kind in WA and a centre of excellence for Aboriginal aged care.
