Independent MLA Fiona Carrick introduced a motion calling on the Government to guarantee a future for the Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre.
Following extensive out-of-session negotiations, Ms Carrick moved amendments to her own motion. It noted ongoing uncertainty regarding Burrangiri’s building classification under the National Construction Code (NCC), which impacts design specifications and therefore funding and planning requirements to ensure compliance standards are met. The amendment called for the ACT Government to work with the Commonwealth Government to clarify the appropriate NCC classification; for the ACT and Commonwealth Governments to enter into a memorandum of understanding to facilitate use of the Commonwealth’s $10 million capital commitment to new capital infrastructure to deliver more aged care respite beds in the ACT; and brought forward the ACT Government’s progress reporting deadlines to June 2026 with quarterly reports thereafter.
ACT Labor moved an amendment to Ms Carrick’s amendment, calling on the ACT Government to finalise the funding model for respite services to ensure that Burrangiri or an equivalent service is eligible and able to replace the current funding arrangements that are due to expire in July 2027.
Thomas spoke in support of the motion, thanking Ms Carrick and the Save Burrungiri Action Group for their relentless advocacy. Thomas also thanked the Health Minister, Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, for her collaborative approach to achieving a meaningful and positive outcome throughout the negotiations on Ms Carrick’s motion.
The motion, as amended, was passed unanimously by the Assembly.