Narrogin Regional Homecare Services transition to external provider Silverchain following Aged Care Act change

A State homecare provider is set to take Wheatbelt residents under its wing after the Shire of Narrogin council resolved to transition its shire-run service to an external provider.

In a behind-closed-doors decision on December 17, council members voted 6-1 in favour of shifting the delivery of Narrogin Regional Homecare Services to a new external provider, Silverchain.

Providing in-home aged care and disability support for more than 130 clients, the shire’s services include personal and domestic help, transport and respite, enabling clients to live at home longer and remain in the community.

The meeting document outlined that the transition was sparked by the changes to homecare service provisions under the new Aged Care Act 2024 and the implementation of Support at Home, both effective from 1 November 2025.

It read that the change highlighted increased care risks, which the shire felt could be better managed by an external provider.

Shire chief executive Dale Stewart said a number of care risks — including increased regulatory compliance, clinical and other quality compliance, staff recruitment and retention, and increased training and qualification requirements — were considered in decision-making.

The shire also fears increased financial risks, including cash flow implications, debtor management and potential debt write-off risks, that may result from the shift from upfront bulk funding to payment on receipt of invoice following provision of services.

Shire president Leigh Ballard said council’s decision was guided by the need to ensure sustainable, high-quality aged care services for the community into the future.

“Council recognises the importance of homecare services to our community,” he said.

“This transition is focused on maintaining continuity of care while ensuring services remain sustainable and responsive to client needs over the long term.”

Council recommended Silverchain Group Limited as the preferred provider to take the reins on June 30 this year.

Before this transition, the shire must receive approval from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to exit its Commonwealth Home Support Program agreement.

The Department will also make the final decision regarding the incoming provider, with consideration to the shire’s Silverchain submission.

The transition is not expected to interrupt homecare services.

Silverchain’s executive director WA Renae Lavell said they were honoured by the recommendation.

“We look forward to working in partnership with council, the Department and the community to ensure a seamless transition that places clients at the centre of care,” she said.

“Silverchain has been trusted by Western Australians for more than a century to deliver in home health and aged care that is distinguished by quality and safety.

“We are committed to building on the strong foundations already in place, ensuring that the Narrogin community continue to receive high-quality care in their home they can trust.”