- Cook Government's Time to Think program expands into regional WA
- 18 dedicated beds available in the South West, bringing the program's beds to 87
- More than 240 patients supported and over 4,800 hospital bed days freed up so far
- Cook Government supporting the wellbeing of all Western Australians
The Cook Government's nation-leading Time to Think program continues to grow, with more dedicated beds now available to support older Western Australians as they plan their next steps after leaving hospital.
Eighteen beds at Capecare Busselton have been added to the program, increasing the total capacity to 87 short-term places across aged care homes in Western Australia.
These are the first Time to Think beds delivered in regional Western Australia, providing much-needed support for older people in the South West region and delivering access to short-term aged care closer to home for older people leaving hospital.
Since its launch in May, the program has supported more than 250 patients and freed up over 4,800 hospital bed days. The expansion of this program will continue helping medically ready people leave hospital sooner while delivering new hospital capacity.
The dedicated beds offer a comfortable, home-like environment where older people can consider their longer-term care options, spend time with family, and transition to their next residence with dignity.
Participants receive the same high-quality aged care as other residents, along with tailored support to explore and secure longer-term arrangements.
The Time to Think program is delivered in partnership with the Cook Government and aged care providers.
Comments attributed to Aged Care and Seniors Minister Simone McGurk:
"The introduction of the first beds in the South West region is a significant milestone in improving access for our regional communities, meaning more older Western Australians can benefit from this valuable support.
"We are already hearing from participants and their families that they value having this time and support to make the right choices for their future - it is making a real difference in people's lives.
"Partnering with aged care providers and the Commonwealth ensures we're delivering high-quality, person-centred care across WA, ensuring older people outside the metropolitan area have the same opportunities for dignified care and decision-making."
As stated by Health and Mental Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"This program is helping to ease pressure on our health system by freeing up thousands of hospital bed days, while ensuring older Western Australians receive the dignified care they deserve.
"We know a significant number of beds in our South West hospitals are being used by older patients who are healthy enough to leave, but have nowhere safe to go.
"We're proud to invest in practical, compassionate solutions that support smoother transitions from hospital to aged care.
"Importantly, expanding into the South West means more regional patients can access this support closer to home, reducing the need for long hospital stays far from family."
