Mental health care for older Tasmanians will be enhanced with the Department of Health to purchase the Southern Cross Care site at St John’s Park in New Town.
The 3.9-hectare property at 85 Creek Road, which includes the Rosary Gardens Residential Aged Care facility, will become the site of Tasmania’s new Older Persons Mental Health Facility, with ownership of the vacated site to transfer to the State by 30 September 2026.
Deputy Premier and Acting Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said this is another important step in improving the lives of older people with mental illness and complex dementia.
“The Tasmanian Government is delivering for Tasmanians and this purchase will further enhance the existing Health and Wellbeing Precinct at St Johns Park, bringing a range of important health services together in one centralised location,” the Deputy Premier said.
“The facility will replace the Roy Fagan Centre in Lenah Valley, the State’s inpatient unit for older persons with mental health needs. The 2021 Review of the Roy Fagan Centre and Older Persons Mental Health Service identified the current Centre as outdated and no longer fit-for-purpose.
“Securing this site now to develop a modern facility is critical, with the Roy Fagan Centre lease expiring in April 2029.
“It will also open up opportunities to transfer other health services to St John’s Park, with the Department to undertake further consultation to determine what services are best placed to occupy the space not being used by Older Persons Mental Health Facility.”
Southern Cross Care had placed the site on the market due to ongoing changes to its operating model. Southern Cross Care has committed to ensuring all current residents are assisted in the transition to alternative and appropriate accommodation.
Chair of Southern Cross Care, Sonya Beyers, said the Organisation was pleased to have reached an agreement which will see the site continue to be used providing care for older Tasmanians.
“It is pleasing that Rosary Gardens will continue to be used to provide essential care services to older Tasmanians,” Ms Beyers said.
“I would also like to reassure our remaining residents, staff and families: Rosary Gardens will remain open and operational until 30 June, and no resident will be left without a home."
The extensive Rosary Gardens facility has three separate residential wings, courtyards, office space, and several ancillary buildings.
The building also operates as the administrative headquarters for Southern Cross Care in Tasmania, which will be relocated.
