On 18 March 2020, the Federal Government announced new visitation restrictions to help combat the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and ensure the safety of our elderly residents.

All Aged Care facilities in Australia are now required to implement these measures in order to reduce the number of visitors to our sites and decrease the risk of COVID-19 exposure.

Please take note of, and adhere to, the below updated visitor restrictions:

  • A maximum of two visitors are permitted to visit a resident at one time, per day
  • Visits are restricted to immediate family members and support people
  • All visits should be limited to a maximum of 60 minutes and must occur between 9am and 4pm daily
  • Visits must be conducted in a resident’s room, outdoors or other designated area
  • Visitors are restricted from accessing communal areas
  • No children aged under 16 years are permitted to visit, except in special circumstances
  • Visitors are encouraged to practise ‘social distancing’, including maintaining a distance of 1.5 metres
  • From 1 May 2020, you must also have had your influenza vaccination to enter an aged care facility

Discretion will be shown when dealing with family members of residents in palliative care. Decisions regarding visitation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

All visitors to our aged care homes will also continue to undergo a screening questionnaire at reception, and prior to visiting their loved one. The questionnaire reflects the latest government advice regarding COVID-19 risk factors and will ensure the following people do not enter our site:

  • Those who have returned from overseas, or been in contact with an international traveller, in the past 14 days
  • Those who have been in contact with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 in the past 14 days
  • Those with fever and/or symptoms of respiratory infection (i.e. cough, sore throat, shortness of breath)

In line with the Federal Government’s advice, large group visits or gatherings, including social activities, will also be cancelled at all of our aged care homes until further notice. More information regarding the Prime Minister’s recent announcement can be found here: www.health.gov.au

If family members are unable to visit a resident in one of our aged care homes, we will do our best to ensure they stay in touch. We encourage family members to make phone or video calls, send postcards, photos or letters, and will provide them with support as needed.

We know this situation isn’t easy, but we are facing an extraordinary health challenge and we need to work together to protect our most vulnerable. Thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation.

Visit our coronavirus updates page for the latest information.