Kalano community to resume management of Kalano Flexible Aged Care Centre

The operation of the Kalano Flexible Aged Care Centre in Katherine is set to transition from Australian Red Cross back to the Kalano Community Association Incorporation (KCAI) at the end of September 2023, returning management to the local First Nations community once more.

After 13 years under Australian Red Cross, the return of management to KCAI marks an important moment for Katherine and the Kalano Membership.

Director Northern Territory, William Daw said Australian Red Cross had offered support at the request of the community so the valuable service could remain in Katherine, but it was always the intention for management to return to KCAI in the long term.

"We are thrilled to see KCAI take over operation of the Kalano Aged Care service once more,” Mr Daw said.

“Australian Red Cross is committed to working alongside First Nations peoples and enabling solutions which are driven from the community.

“The service has performed strongly and with the approval of the Department of Health and Aged Care, we are so pleased to be transitioning management back to community.

“This is great success story and will help ensure services reflect the needs and goals of the local community, being designed and delivered by local people.”

CEO KCAI, Alan Mole said KCAI was very happy to be once again the provider of age care services to the First Nations people of the Big Rivers Region.

“We are confident that we can provide a high quality culturally appropriate age care service and look forward to including our age care residents in our community-based activities,” Mr Mole said.

Australian Red Cross and KCAI will work closely over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition, with a focus on minimising any disruptions for clients, their families, and the broader community, as well as to staff currently working at the facility.

Media inquiries

• Australian Red Cross: media@redcross.org.au or 1800 733 443
• KCAI: ceo@kalano.org.au or 0417 713 183