The Department of Health has engaged an adviser to provide advice to interested parties, support ongoing discussions and advise the department if an offer is made.
“The Department of Health has engaged an adviser with expertise in the aged care sector to support ongoing discussions in relation to the future of the DP Jones facility,” Aged Care Minister Richard Colbeck said.
“This includes engaging with aged care providers which may be interested in taking over the facility and providing advice to the department about any offers that may be received,” he said.
The role is separate to that of SV Partners, which is responsible for the liquidation of Murchison Community Care and its assets, which may include the sale to willing buyers.
The liquidator's role is independent of government and it operates in accordance with its strict obligations under the Corporations Act.
The employment of the adviser, however, comes after the Federal Government committed an extra $120 000 to SV Partners liquidater Richard Cauchi to cover the cost of carrying out his duties for an extra month while the government engages with possible providers.
In an earlier statement to The News, Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum said the government was committed to finding a long-term solution for the nursing home so the delivery of residential aged care in Murchison could be re-established.
“The government is actively considering options that would see the DP Jones facility open under new management,” Mr Drum said.
The facility officially closed its doors on Tuesday, February 11.
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