- Published:
- Thursday 9 November 2023
The Allan Labor Government is ensuring older Victorians in the south-west have access to the high-quality care they need and deserve, with main works getting underway on a new $39.6 million aged care facility in Camperdown.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt today turned the first sod at the site of the future facility that will feature 36-beds over two storeys – replacing South West Healthcare’s existing Merindah Lodge at the Camperdown Hospital.
Creating a safe and comfortable place for residents to call home, the new facility will feature dementia-friendly design – providing a more modern, efficient and safer working environment for staff.
Residents will be accommodated in single bedrooms with a private ensuite, in a setting that promotes dignity, people-centred care and independence.
This design also includes utilising the concept of ‘small households’ with dedicated kitchen, dining, lounge and break-out sitting areas.
It means residents can ‘age in place’ – an important approach to aged care for many older people, particularly in regional areas, as it allows residents to remain close to support networks and maintain family connections as their care needs increase.
The new Camperdown facility will also support greater connection with the community and wellbeing of residents with the inclusion of new outdoor spaces to promote resident physical and emotional health, as well as encourage increased social interaction.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) in partnership with South West Healthcare and AW Nicholson, the project is on track to be completed by 2025.
The Camperdown aged care facility project is being delivered under the Rural and Regional Public Sector Residential Aged Care Services Revitalisation Strategy to modernise ageing facilities which are home to some of our most vulnerable older Victorians.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt
“It is important we take care of our older Victorians by helping them age with dignity, compassion and comfort – facilities like this in Camperdown will mean high-quality public aged care, when they need it and close to home.”
“This new 36-bed facility will provide a home-like setting that focuses on independence and wellbeing, while enabling staff to continue providing high-quality person-centred care and support.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“This is a fantastic investment for the south west – providing our older Camperdown locals a new, state-of-the-art facility with the care they need, right on their doorstep.”