The Federal Government is responding to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes with a targeted funding package.
The $205 million is being made available to all Commonwealth funding residential aged care providers to cover the costs of additional staffing, training, supporting visitations and connections and the provision of personal protective equipment and infection control measures.
Providers will receive around $900 per resident in major metropolitan areas and around $1350 per residents in all other areas.
The latest round of funding follows the $235 million retention bonus paid to residential and home care workers to strengthen the workforce during the pandemic and $78 million announced in March for residential care to support continuity of workforce supply.
It comes as Hunter health lawyer, Catherine Henry calls for an independent inquiry into a COVID-19 cluster at the Newmarch House aged care facility in Sydney's west which has claimed the lives of 16 residents.
Federal member for Lyne, Dr David Gillespie says it's vital for nursing homes to receive the support they need to tackle the COVID-19 crisis.
"We are seeing how devastating the impact of COVID-19 can be if there is an outbreak in an aged care facility. I have spoken to a number of local providers who are very keen to ensure they maintain the highest of standards and care, particularly at this challenging time, and these measures are aimed at protecting the most vulnerable people in our community, " he said.
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| Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie |
