19th February, 2025.
Harbison, Burradoo, Southern Highlands has been awarded a $27.5 million federal grant, the largest in the latest Aged Care Capital Assistance Program round, to fund Stage 2 of its redevelopment. The project, set to begin early this year, will construct a modern 72-bed aged care facility and dementia respite service, addressing a critical shortage in the Southern Highlands. Harbison CEO David Cochran emphasised the impact of this funding, highlighting plans to replace the outdated 1950s hostel and create over 50 skilled local jobs. On December 19, facility residents gathered with the Hon. Stephen Jones MP, Member for Whitlam, Harbison CEO David Cochran, board chair Dr Mark Wilson and me to hear about what the funding means for Harbison' I was honoured to attend the announcement. I shared emotional anecdotes about families forced to relocate loved ones due to limited local facilities, expressing optimism that the expansion will allow couples and families to remain close. The redevelopment aligns with Harbison's 10-year plan, "Harbison 2034," which aims to revolutionise aged and dementia care. The announcement was celebrated as a milestone in improving health services and enhancing the lives of Southern Highlands residents.
