It’s hard to believe we’re wrapping up 2025. This year brought plenty of challenges, plenty of wins, and countless reminders of just how strong this sector is when we pull in the same direction. We asked the team to share their highlights. Here’s what stood out:
Improving access to GPs
“Your honesty about the challenges of GP access opened doors. Together, we’ve tackled GP misconceptions about aged care, made the GP incentive simpler to navigate. Overall, we supported GPs responsible for more than 3,000 residents to stay in aged care. There’s more to do, but thanks to you, we’re on the right path toward every resident having consistent, high-quality primary care.”
Jane Moye – Coordinator Healthy Living and Ageing, GP for Aged Care Residents Project
Tools, tech and trying new things
Introducing new processes in already busy homes is no small feat — yet you’ve leaned in, offered feedback, and helped shape what works on the ground. Because of you, several key initiatives are now part of everyday practice.
Deteriorating Resident Triage Tool (DRTT)
“It’s been exciting to see the DRTT picking up momentum. Homes are telling us it’s boosting confidence, supporting clinical decisions, and helping standardise communication. Most importantly, it’s helping prevent unnecessary hospitalisations and keeping care aligned with residents’ wishes.”
Vanessa Gee – Senior Manager, Healthy Living and Ageing
“At Bellingen Masonic Village (BMV), it’s now a staple in nurse training and orientation. Like any tool, it’s only as good as the person using it — but it’s proving invaluable in shaping decisions and action plans.”
Brook Roberts – Care Manager RFBI Bellingen Masonic Village
Telehealth in aged care
“Telehealth has truly found its place this year. Around 70% of homes now have equipment for video consultations, and many have made it part of routine care.
The Mid North Coast LHDs Aged Care Outreach Service (ACOS) has been a standout.”
Alissa Reeve – Senior Manager, Digital Health
“We’ve had nothing but great things to say. One resident avoided a lengthy hospital transfer because ACOS triaged her before arrival. She had her scans and was back home in half the time. In other cases, residents were able to stay here and receive the right care. It’s brilliant.”
Tammie Gough – General Manager Residential Aged Care
Seventeen homes are now using Visionflex carts, unlocking high-quality remote diagnostics. Training delivered through UCRH has been a big hit, with nurses saying they loved the scenarios, the interactivity, and how prepared they now feel to manage deterioration with immediate GP support.
Community strength in a crisis
“When Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred hit, the way people rallied was extraordinary. Homes were well prepared, teams went above and beyond, and the message was clear: we are absolutely better together.”
Jo Winwood – Associate Director, Aged Care and Living Well
Aged Care Reforms
“We want to acknowledge the huge amount of behind-the-scenes work you’ve done – preparing staff, residents, and families ahead of 1 November, and then adapting as changes took effect. Your commitment to getting it right has been incredible.”
Jo Winwood – Associate Director, Aged Care and Living Well
