Operation of services delivered by Southern Cross Care Broken Hill have formally been transferred to Southern Cross Care Queensland, following a structured transfer process of the Broken Hill and Mildura aged care homes and retirement villages.
The transfer marks an expansion into regional Victoria and New South Wales for the Catholic, not-for-profit provider and allows for vital aged care services and retirement living options to continue operating in Broken Hill and Mildura.
Southern Cross Care Queensland said all frontline team members have been retained, as continuity of care for residents is the first priority. But to ensure long-term sustainability, some corporate and administrative functions have been centralised, resulting in 17 redundancies in the Broken Hill support office.
The two providers have been collaborating under a Management Services Agreement since July 2024, and Southern Cross Care Queensland chief executive officer Jason Eldering said the two organisations continue to share a commitment to supporting communities in regional and remote Australia.
Mr Eldering said it is a profound moment for both organisations.
“We know change is difficult, and we acknowledge the strong sense of identity and commitment that exists across the Broken Hill and Mildura communities. This transition is not an acquisition it is a continuation of the mission established by the Knights of the Southern Cross and those who have faithfully served in this region,” he added.
“Our priority is to ensure continuity of care for residents, to honour and support our dedicated teams, and to make the necessary long-term investments in people, infrastructure, and systems so that services in these communities remain viable and vibrant for decades to come.”
The aged care homes included in the transfer are:
- Aruma Lodge Residential Care, Broken Hill
- Harold Williams Home, Broken Hill
- St Anne’s Nursing Home, Broken Hill
- Oasis Aged Care, Mildura
The retirement villages include:
- Con Crowley Village, Broken Hill
- War Vets Retirement Living, Broken Hill
- The Vines Retirement Village, Mildura
Southern Cross Care Queensland brings more than 40 years of experience in delivering aged care services and close to 20 in delivering aged care services in regional and remote settings to Broken Hill and Mildura.
“There are increasing complexities in delivering aged care, especially in rural and remote regions. Our aligned heritage and values-based approach to care is more important than ever” Mr Eldering said.
“We are committed to working with all levels of government, stakeholders, and communities to advocate for a fairer deal for regional aged care. Together, we will continue to grow communities where the best lives are lived.”
Southern Cross Care Queensland said the transfer of ownership has not changed their preparations for the 1 November implementation of the new Aged Care Act and welcome the additional time to prepare for the changes.
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