The Australian Government is investing $10 million to deliver essential building upgrades that will keep the Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre operating.
Delivering on a 2025 election commitment, this investment will ensure that Burrangiri can continue to deliver aged care respite services for older Canberrans.
Over the past 12 months, the Government has been talking with Burrangiri’s community about the best way to maximise the $10 million investment and support residents while work is underway.
The funding will be provided to the ACT Government through the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP) for infrastructure upgrades to address work health and safety issues at the facility.
Works will begin in the second half of 2027 and be completed in 2028.
The Albanese government is working with the sector to ensure overnight and day respite care is available during the temporary closure period.
The Commonwealth will also continue to explore options, including a proposal already received from Goodwin Aged Care, to meet the longer-term respite care needs of older Canberrans and their families as demand for services grows.
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing will undertake an Expression of Interest process to identify relevant providers who can deliver replacement respite services in the ACT from July 2027.
Expressions of Interest are expected to open in late October 2026.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher:
“We have heard clearly from older people, carers and the broader Canberra community that Burrangiri is an important and valued service.
“By funding this upgrade, we will ensure Burrangiri remains part of the community for many years to come.
“Today’s announcement provides certainty for older people, their families and carers, and delivers on our promise made during the 2025 election.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae:
“The Albanese Labor Government is making sure older Canberrans continue to have access to high-quality respite care services into the future.
“This $10 million upgrade at the Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre will support older Canberrans to access respite care in a safe, comfortable and supportive environment.
“Respite care plays a vital role in helping older people remain living at home, by providing carers with the support and breaks they need.”
Quotes attributable to David Smith MP:
“Burrangiri is an incredibly important service for older Canberrans and the families and carers who rely on respite care support.
“This investment delivers on our commitment to secure Burrangiri’s future and ensure it can continue supporting our community for years to come.
“I know many families in Bean value this service, and today’s announcement provides welcome certainty both for Burrangiri’s future and for those who depend on it.”
