A key focus of the visit was the Australian Government's final stage of aged care nurse wage increases, which came into effect on 1 August 2026. The increase marks the final phase of the Aged Care Work Value Case and Work Value Case – Nurses and Midwives, recognising the important contribution enrolled and registered nurses make across the sector.
Federal Treasurer, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP, and Federal Member for Blair, the Hon Shayne Neumann MP with residents of Villa Maria Eastern Heights.
'This wage increase provides greater financial security, particularly with the rising cost of living,' she said.
L-R Villa Maria Eastern Heights care and residential managers respectively, Neenu Mariam and Bish Shrestha, the Hon Shayne Neumann MP, Catholic Healthcare Regional Manager Danny Oakenfull, Federal Treasurer, the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP and Catholic Healthcare CEO Josh McFarlane.
Catholic Healthcare CEO Josh McFarlane welcomed recognition of the aged care workforce and the positive impact it will have on the sector, saying:
'Our nurses provide compassionate, skilled care every day, supporting older Australians to live with dignity and respect.
'It's wonderful to see aged care nurses recognised for the vital contribution they make to our communities. Investing in the workforce helps attract and retain talented nurses and ultimately strengthens the quality of care available to older Australians.'
The visit also provided an opportunity for residents Dorothy, Betty, Kathryn, Olivia and Irene to spend time with the Treasurer and Mr Neumann, sharing stories of their lives and reminiscing about the history of the local community.
The afternoon wrapped up with the Treasurer presenting residents with freshly baked scones and locally made jam to enjoy over afternoon tea, a thoughtful gesture that was warmly appreciated by all.