August 11th, 2026Creswick Aged Care visit

A host of MPs visited Creswick Aged Care recently to mark the final stage of the federal government’s aged care wage increases.

Among those attending were, pictured from left, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King MP, Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles MP, Loren Phelps (Creswick Aged Care) Nicole Allan (Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation assistant secretary), Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae MP, Lee Drury (Creswick Health Director of Nursing) and Member for Ripon Martha Haylett MP.
The visit underscored the significance of the milestone as registered and enrolled nurses in aged care received a further increase to their take-home pay.
The delegation toured the home, met with residents and staff, and experienced the warm and welcoming environment that has become a hallmark of the service.
The visit also provided an opportunity to showcase Central Highlands Rural Health’s person-led approach to care, which places residents’ individual needs, preferences and goals at the centre of decision-making and daily living.
CHRH deputy CEO Phil Catterson said the wage increase was a positive step for the aged care workforce and the people who rely on their care.
“This outcome is a well-deserved recognition of the important work our dedicated aged care nursing staff do every day to support older Australians.
“Nurses are the backbone of our organisation, and we want them to feel valued and fairly rewarded for the incredible care they provide.
“Supporting and retaining a strong nursing workforce is essential, not only for our health service but for the future of healthcare in our region. We want nursing to remain a career of choice, ensuring our communities continue to receive the very best care for generations to come.”

As always, residents were keen to welcome visitors and share their experiences, with many taking the opportunity to stop for a chat during the tour.