A NEW RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE HOME FOR NORFOLK ISLAND

The Albanese Labor Government is delivering a new 16-bed residential aged care home for the Norfolk Island community, allowing more residents to age on island, with dignity and access to high quality care.

The aged care home is one stage of the Norfolk Island Multipurpose Service (MPS) health facility project and will be constructed first, in recognition of community need.

To be located on the existing Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service (NIHRACS) site, the new aged care home will be a significant boost for the island, allowing for an expansion to the number of local aged care beds.

The new facilities will provide safety and security while supporting independence and quality care.

The aged care home project will also include construction of a new ancillary support services building and mortuary for the Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service.

In the current aged care accommodation, there is limited capacity to manage the needs of Norfolk Island residents living with dementia.

The new residential aged care home is expected to be completed in mid-2027, with the design also allowing for possible future expansion if required.

The Government continues to support the work to achieve accreditation for NIHRACS, including investment in upgrading the existing facilities and services – and is considering options for progressing the broader MPS project.

For more information on the MPS and the current health services delivered to Norfolk Island, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/territories/norfolk-island/health-services/aged-care-service

• Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:

• “The Albanese Government recognises the critical need to expand and improve aged care services for the Norfolk Island community, so more residents can age on island.

• “The new aged care home will provide for aged care residents’ needs, in line with national requirements, while supporting future expansions.

• “It’s important we have a responsible and measured approach to expenditure as we consider future options for the MPS project, but I can assure residents that the Government continues to prioritise the delivery of quality health care on island.”

• Quotes attributable to Member for Bean, David Smith MP:

• “It is important that Islanders have the services they need now, and into the future.

“The delivery of the new residential aged care home will make a real difference to Norfolk’s older residents and their families.

“I am committed to advocating for the continuing improvement of the health facilities and services on island.”