Future secured for Gummun Place through new care model

Published on 02 April 2026

Council has resolved a clear pathway forward for Gummun Place, confirming a transition that will allow the facility to continue supporting older residents in the community under a revised care model.

Following careful consideration and extensive work to identify a sustainable long-term solution, Council has endorsed a leasing arrangement that will see Gummun Place continue operating with a focus on supported accommodation and home care services.

Deputy Mayor Cr Pat Ryan, Chair of the Gummun Place Advisory Committee, said the outcome reflects a significant amount of work behind the scenes to secure the facility’s future.

“This has been a complex process, but the focus has always been on finding a solution that keeps services in our community and supports residents both now and into the future that is also affordable for our community” Cr Ryan said.

At Monday nights council meeting Council resolved:

1. To accept the offer from provider A to lease Gummun Place as a licensed assisted boarding house supported by home care services.
2. Delegate authority to the General Manager to execute the lease and conduct all relevant functions under the lease.
3. Publicly announce the name of the provider once the lease negotiations have been finalised.
4. Confirm its intention to cease operating Gummun Place Hostel as a residential aged care facility by 30 April 2026 and apply to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to revoke its registration as an aged care provider.

Council would like to acknowledge the hard work that has been put in by the Gummun Place Advisory Committee to achieve this outcome.

Cr Ryan said the transition provides a positive and realistic path forward for the facility. “This outcome ensures Gummun Place remains open and continues to support older residents in a way that is sustainable and better aligned with current care models,” he said.

This outcome provides a clear and positive path forward for Gummun Place and the community. While the residential aged care model is no longer viable, the transition ensures the facility will continue supporting older residents locally.

Under a licensed assisted boarding house model supported by home care services, Gummun Place will remain open, maintain local services and jobs, and continue to play an important role in the Upper Hunter’s care network.

Council remains committed to working closely with the selected provider, residents, families and staff throughout the transition period to ensure a smooth and respectful changeover ahead of 30 April 2026.