News Flash

The Department of Health Industrial Liaison Committee meeting was held recently. PSA was represented by Senior Industrial Officer Dolly Costello. The following key agenda items were discussed.

New Mental Health Act

Progress has been made on the work required for the implementation of the new Act. The new Act is to commence in July 2010.

Community Mental Health

The capital budget for Community Mental Health is now at $34 million.

It was reported that the first GP Plus Centre at Marion will be completed later this year with a further two to be completed in 2011-12 and then a further two in 2012-13.

Forensic Mental Health Services

A concept plan is to be completed by April 2010. The Government has approved $19 million to upgrade James Nash House and will provide an additional 10 beds at that site.

Supported Accommodation

The Government has approved funding of some $2.46 million. Sixty four houses in the Community will be built and 20 units on the Glenside site. Proposals for the first nine houses, the first to be completed by June 2010 with the others to be completed December 2010. Progress is also being made on the Social House-G Project for 262 houses under the Commonwealth Government Economic Stimulus Package. Most of these will be delivered by the end of 2010.

Aged Care

Work has been undertaken in planning the future delivery of Aged Care Community Services under a new Model of Care. The transition of Aged Extended Care Services to the Residential Aged Care sector will occur, over the next year or two.

Intermediate Care

Construction of the first two intermediate Care Centres at Glenside and Noarlunga is continuing, with the estimated completion dates as July 2010. Construction will commence at the Queenstown site this month with the estimated completion date of January 2011.

Food and Drink Choices at SA Health Facilities

A comprehensive report was provided on SA Health facilities. SA Health aims to help all South Australians live healthier and longer and better lives. One of the ways they envisage doing this, is by making it easier for families to chose healthier foods and drinks in cafeterias, kiosks, cafes and vending machines on all SA Health premises.