Hansard debates

Mrs McARTHUR (Western Victoria) (21:58): (1619) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Health and concerns Lyndoch Living in Warrnambool, which in addition to residential aged-care services provides respite, in-home care and disability and allied health services to other age groups. Warrnambool is rightly proud of Lyndoch, which was established by local people and has grown successfully in the decades since. Community ownership and engagement have always been an essential part of the Lyndoch story. I am concerned, however, by recent developments which appear to undermine this ethos and perhaps reflect other more concerning problems in the organisation.

Since Lyndoch became a company limited by guarantee in 2018 it appears that new board and general members are not being admitted. Lyndoch has no general members other than the seven board members and a handful of unnamed executive staff. Under the Lyndoch constitution, to nominate for the board you must first be a general member. It seems the wider community has been cut off. Every membership application in the last 18 months—well over 100—has been rejected, including those of incredibly well-qualified and motivated individuals. In my view the current membership of Lyndoch should be a matter of public record and criteria surrounding the application process should be properly explained. I raise my concerns in this house with the minister because this poor governance practice appears to reflect wider problems, including poor staff morale and increased turnover, and questions from the former CFO over the viability of the $100 million master plan. It is also concerning that staff complaints to board members have apparently gone unanswered, as has a community petition signed by more than 1000 residents.

Now, I well understand that problems can arise in any big organisation, but I implore the management of Lyndoch to change their approach to working with the community and to adopt transparent and actively cooperative policies. As a funding partner through the health independence program and the home and community care program the minister’s department has an ongoing relationship with Lyndoch. The action I seek from the minister is that, in light of these community concerns, the minister provides an assurance that in the considered opinion of the department Lyndoch Living continues to offer high-quality services under an appropriate governance structure. I know your view will be of great interest to Warrnambool residents.