As reported today by ABC News, Wesley Mission has announced the closure of its three facilities in Sylvania, Carlingford, and Narrabeen due to workforce constraints. The decision comes in response to challenges in attracting and retaining staff, which Wesley Mission cites as difficulties in meeting the new federal government staffing requirements for aged care facilities.
The federal government has set a self-imposed target of having registered nurses on duty in aged care homes 24/7 by July 1, as part of its national reforms to improve the quality of care. However, Wesley Mission, as a smaller provider with just three aged care locations, has found it challenging to meet these requirements, resulting in the decision to close its facilities. Inside Ageing’s Aged Care Industry Survey is currently asking the sector to comment on Business Pressures (inc staffing) impacting their operations, with the results to be revealed shortly in a report – share your views here.
Nearly 200 residents and their families will be affected by the closures, but Wesley Mission has stated that it will not shut the facilities until suitable accommodation has been found for all residents. The not-for-profit has also appointed MyCarePath, a specialised aged care placement service, to assist residents in finding new accommodation.
The Department of Health and Aged Care has stated that aged care providers have a responsibility to ensure residents are appropriately relocated and accommodated in suitable facilities. Wesley Mission had previously closed its Tebbutt facility in Dundas last year due to the inability to carry out necessary building works, citing increasing challenges in providing amenities that meet residents’ needs.
