Warramunda Village Limited presents a compelling case study on innovative turnaround strategies in rural and remote aged care, offering insights that inspire and impact the broader sector. In 2022, Warramunda, a Not-for-Profit (NFP) 82-bed residential facility with Home Care, NDIS services, and Independent Living Units, faced a series of operational, clinical, and workforce challenges that threatened its survival and sustainability.

Confronted with emerging local competitors and a disengaged workforce, the governance committee recognized the need for urgent action. Compounding these issues was compliance action from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) in the form of a “Notice to Agree,” leading to unplanned expenses and community dissatisfaction. Traditional change management approaches were insufficient, necessitating a novel “top-down, bottom-up” strategy.

This case study will detail key impacts, including:
• The implementation of a novel approach to turnaround strategies that embraced the Strengthened Aged Care Standards via a pilot with reaccreditation, transforming compliance performance.
• A comprehensive governance and corporate strategy overhaul, creating a more effective and sustainable entity.
• A human resource strategy that eliminated reliance on external staffing agencies and fostered workforce development.
• The transformation of financial governance, introducing corporate-style accounting practices that enhanced transparency and profitability.
• The successful turnaround of a loss-making entity into a profitable, sustainable business, encompassing Home Care and NDIS considerations.
• Community engagement efforts that rebuilt trust and support from the local community.

Warramunda Village’s journey from a struggling service to a model of innovation, sustainability, and profitability provides a roadmap for other aged care providers facing similar challenges. Through this presentation, we aim to share practical strategies and inspire others in the sector to pursue impactful change, ensuring the continued provision of high-quality care in rural and remote areas.