A second Illawarra aged care facility has had sanctions slapped on it by the Federal Department of Health after failing to meet national standards. Garrawarra Centre will not be eligible for federal funding for any new patients for six months after the department identified an ‘’immediate and severe risk to the health, safety and well-being’’ of residents. The Waterfall facility also stands to lose its approval as an aged care provider unless an advisor, and an administrator, are appointed for the six-month period until November 27. Staff training must also be undertaken. According to the health department, an assessment by the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency (AACQA) uncovered serious concerns about behavioural management at the home. An AACQA spokeswoman said a team had made an unannounced visit to Garrawarra on May 6 and 9, followed by a full audit review from May 15-23. Run by NSW Health, the centre is one of the few purpose-built, dementia-specific facilities in the state – with a capacity of 120 beds. South Eastern Sydney Local Health District chief executive Gerry Marr moved to assure the community that the ‘’care, comfort and support’’ of residents remained a priority.
