The closure of the homes brings the number of aged care facilities to shut since December 1 to nine,according to Health Department figures,with several more closures yet to be announced.
Helen Emmerson,the provider’s chief executive and a registered nurse,said it was “not sustainable to ask existing staff to regularly work double shifts,with no respite” and the home could not rely on agency staff “who drive in and out”.
She said the decision to close was a difficult one but “we cannot responsibly continue to assign our limited resources to facilities we have assessed as unsustainable”. She said staffing shortages meant the facilities could not meet quality standards.
“Permanent,well-resourced staff are vital for fostering relationships and supporting people to age with dignity,” Ms Emmerson said.
“We are experienced at operating in challenging circumstances,but the aged care sector faces serious structural and workforce issues,with most regional homes operating at a loss.”
Aged Care Services Minister Richard Colbeck told a Senate estimates hearing on Wednesday that providers closing down “have an obligation to continue to provide care until all residents have found an alternative place.”
“Some of them should close,” Senator Colbeck said.