A Melbourne aged care facility has responded quickly to sanctions that were imposed by the Commonwealth Government late last week.

Doutta Galla’s Lynch’s Bridge aged care facility in the suburb of Kensington has appointed a qualified nurse advisor and commenced a detailed action plan.

In a statement, the home said it is currently working with the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency and the Department of Health and Ageing to achieve compliance.

“Our absolute priority is the health and wellbeing of the people for whom we care,” the facility said. “Qualified nursing and care staff are on duty at all times throughout the day and night.

“Significant resources are employed to ensure there is no risk to residents, staff or visitors to the facility.”

The sanctions were imposed after the agency identified issues with the number of skilled staff, information systems, pain management and behavioural management.

The 57-bed facility will not be able to take in any new residents with Commonwealth subsidies for six months.

 “When aged care providers fail to meet their responsibilities the government will act to protect our frail and elderly citizens,” said the Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot.

“This government is committed to continuing to work in partnership with older Australians, their families, staff, unions and providers to improve the quality of aged care in Australia.”

The CEO of Aged and Community Care Victoria, Gerard Mansour said Lynch’s Bridge had been working closely with the association’s advisors.

“Lynch’s Bridge Aged Care Facility continues its dedication and commitment to return to full compliance promptly [and to] keep residents and their family members informed of these developments and their action plan,” he said.