Funding for Gosnells nursing home being considered

Health Minister Keith Wilson has confirmed that the State Government is considering providing some funds for a new nursing home in Gosnells.

Mr Wilson said the Government was willing to support the project, despite the fact that it was the Commonwealth's responsibility to provide capital funding for nursing homes.

"There is a recognised need for nursing home beds in the Gosnells area, and this project is obviously important to local residents," he said.

"I have written to the Mayor of Gosnells, Mrs Pat Morris, and the Commonwealth indicating the State Government's interest in being involved in this project, and the need for more time to resolve a number of details.

"I have also asked the Health Department to enter into immediate discussions with Amaroo Cottages for Senior Citizens and the Commonwealth to clarify and resolve a number of matters so that we can properly assess the project."

As a first step in this process, the Commissioner of Health, Dr Peter Brennan, had written to the Commonwealth, Amaroo and the Gosnells City Council seeking the required details.

"As soon as they are provided and all relevant matters are resolved, the Government will be able to make a final decision on its involvement in the project," Mr Wilson said.

"I have already agreed to the transfer of 40 nursing home beds to the proposed new nursing home.

"However, it is necessary to have formal agreement on all the issues involved in order for the State Government to give a firm funding commitment to the project.

"It is my sincere hope this will be done very soon so that the project will be able to get off the ground with the minimum of delay."