I have been a full-time Carer for my sister, who has acquired a brain injury, for 38 years. She is a client of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and consequently, cannot utilize Aged Care Respite. For the past 15 years, we have relied heavily on Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre as our primary source of respite - a sanctuary in times of desperation when I am in dire need of a break. Burrangiri constitutes more than just a facility; it is a lifeline for families and care providers like myself.

However, the government, without consideration for the loyal staff and all the clients this facility has harbored, intends to close Burrangiri in June 2025, under the pretext of it being an old building. The impact of this closure will be felt by many. It will rip away the existing support system for disabled and aged individuals who are already scarce in the ACT.

We cannot ignore that respite for disability and the aged is in the ACT is already scarce. Without Burrangiri, there will essentially be no safe haven for respite unless you are connected to the aged care system, creating an unacceptable exclusion for NDIS clients like my sister.

We implore the government not just to halt their plans of closing down Burrangiri, but to provide a new, fully equipped facility for its operations. Our fight is not only for my sister and me, but also for hundreds of families who need this facility. Help us protect the necessity that is Burrangiri from disappearing. Sign this petition to prevent the closure of Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre in Rivett, ACT.