Barunga Village has secured $1.66 million in federal funding through the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP) to support the development of new staff accommodation in Port Broughton. The organisation will also contribute an additional $1.012 million to the project, bringing the total investment to more than $2.6 million.
The project includes the construction of three duplexes comprising of six fully equipped one-bedroom units with flexible layouts designed to accommodate families if required. Barunga Village proposes that the new housing will be located on Bay Street in Port Broughton, with the development currently progressing through council planning approval.
Barunga Village’s Chief Executive Officer, Elizabeth Carroll said the initiative was a strategic response to ongoing housing challenges affecting regional aged care workforce recruitment and retention.
“The shortage of suitable housing in regional areas is a significant barrier to attracting and keeping skilled staff,” Elizabeth said.
“This development enables us to offer quality accommodation to new and relocating staff, directly supporting the sustainability of our residential and community programs.”
Barunga Village is working alongside SMFA (Stuart Michael Fitton Architects) and Reimagine Architects (Aukland) to design and deliver the project, which is set to strengthen the organisation’s aged care and community services across the region.
“This project is part of a broader commitment to supporting our workforce and delivering high-quality care to the people we serve,” Elizabeth said.
“It reflects our focus on long-term planning and our belief that investing in people and the infrastructure they need delivers real benefits to the whole community.”
The ACCAP grant forms part of the Australian Government’s investment in aged care infrastructure, aimed at improving access to care and supporting the delivery of safe, high-quality services in regional and remote areas.
The staff accommodation development is expected to commence construction in early 2026, pending final planning approval.
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