A $500,000 Morrison Government investment has increased the number and quality of residential aged care options in the South Australian centre of Murray Bridge.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said this funding was part of the Government’s $5 billion aged care funding boost, announced in the 2018-19 Budget, dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of aged care services in regional, rural and remote Australia.

On Tuesday 9th February, the completion of the multimillion-dollar upgrade to the Lerwin Aged Care Facility was officially celebrated.
The funding enabled infrastructure upgrades included refurbishing 15 existing rooms, upgrading bathrooms and converting the existing courtyard into a contemporary, spacious outdoor meeting place. The funding also created an additional five places within the facility.

“Expanding the capacity of Lerwin is important in ensuring those entering aged care from the Murray Mallee can remain in the community and thereby retain community ties with family and friends. In addition the refurbishment that this funding has made possible means the existing facilities have been upgraded to modern standards, improving the experience for residents and their visitors.” Mr Pasin said.

“Our Government understands that local aged care services face challenges their capital city counterparts do not. These upgrades will boost the capacity and improve the experience for residents at the Lerwin Nursing Home which plays such an important role in providing aged care services to communities through the Murray Mallee.’ Mr Pasin said.

“These upgrades will boost the productivity and sustainability of local aged care services, which play a critical role in communities right around the Nation.” Mr Pasin said.

The Federal Department of Health, Aged Care Rural and Remote Infrastructure Grant funding is dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of aged care services in regional, rural and remote Australia.

ENDS

Anna Hawkins | 0439 651 016 | anna.hawkins@aph.gov.au