- Cook Labor Government providing more beds for older people leaving hospital as part of the Winter Strategy
- Additional 59 beds added to the Cook Labor Government's Time to Think program bringing the total number to nearly 146 beds across multiple aged care homes
- Expanded program will offer 24 beds in Duncraig, 18 in Bull Creek, 10 beds in Camillo, and seven beds in Mosman Park
- Cook Labor Government supporting the wellbeing of all Western Australians
The Cook Labor Government's Time to Think program continues to grow, with more aged care beds for older Western Australians now available, so they can move into the community sooner and free up hospital beds.
Time to Think is a nation-leading compassionate program that provides older people with access to short-term accommodation in a comfortable, home-like aged care setting, giving them time to consider longer-term care options, consult with family, and transition to their new residence with dignity.
The program has been boosted with additional beds through 24 beds at Lady McCusker Home in Duncraig, 18 beds at Lefroy Care Centre in Bull Creek, 10 beds in Thomas Scott Hostel in Camillo, and seven beds at Mosman Park Care Centre. This brings the total capacity of the program to 146.
Since May 2025, the program has assisted more than 450 patients, freeing up over 14,000 hospital bed days and helping medically ready patients be discharged sooner.
Participants receive the same high standard of care as permanent residents, alongside tailored support to explore and secure longer-term aged care arrangements.
The program is delivered in partnership with the Commonwealth Government and aged care providers as part of the Cook Labor Government's broader commitment to improve healthcare access and aged care pathways across WA.
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"Time to Think is supporting older Western Australians to leave hospital safely and with dignity, while also delivering real results for our health system.
"It's why we boosted funding for the program by an additional $24.2 million through our Winter Strategy.
"We are supporting the wellbeing of all Western Australians and investing in smart and compassionate healthcare."
As stated by Aged Care and Seniors Minister Simone McGurk:
"This expansion means even more older Western Australians and their families can benefit from the time, space, and assistance they need to make informed decisions about their future care.
"The dedicated beds offer older people a comfortable, home-like setting where they can take time to consider their longer-term care options.
"By working closely with aged care providers and the Commonwealth, we are strengthening aged care pathways and tailored support for older Western Australians."
