$5m funding pledge for Sri Om respite centre for aged migrants

Aged migrants in the Blacktown area will receive a multi-million dollar boost with funds pledged for a cultural respite centre for South Asian residents.

A respite centre for older migrants in western Sydney is one step closer with Labor pledging $5 million. Pictured: left, Greenway federal Labor MP Michelle Rowland announced the funding at Sri Om, and, right, the site of the future respite centre at Clarence.

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Aged migrants in the Blacktown area will receive a multi-million dollar boost if Labor wins the Federal Election, with $5 million pledged for a cultural respite centre.

Greenway federal Labor MP Michelle Rowland and Shadow Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Australia Tony Burke announced the details ahead of Saturday’s Federal Election.

The funds would go towards the Sri Om Care Foundation and the construction of a culturally-appropriate respite centre for older migrants living in western Sydney.

The site of Sri Om respite centre in Clarence near Lithgow. Picture: Supplied

Sri Om is a not-for-profit organisation which specialises in culturally-relevant care services for the elderly from the South Asian community.

Speaking to the Advocate, Sri Om executive director Jay Raman said the centre would be built in Clarence near Lithgow, providing overnight, weekend, weekly and fortnightly respite stays.

Mr Raman said the centre could be open within 18 months with the funding.

The funding will be great for us,” he said.

“If children want to go away on holidays and take a break and they’re in a dilemma as to where to leave their parents, we will be able to take in their parents and seniors.

“This project will be purpose-built and will make a big difference in the lives of older South Asian migrants.”

The Sri Om Care Foundation provides culturally-appropriate care for seniors from the South Asian community. Picture: Supplied

He said the project would be rolled out in two stages, with up to 140 beds available over a five-year period.

Ms Rowland said she was committed to providing culturally-appropriate care for older migrants.

“Sir Om care is well-respected in western Sydney for the important tailored aged care service it provides, particularly to South Asian migrants,” Ms Rowland said.

“This announcement will allow the Sri Om Care Foundation to expand their facilities and provide respite services in a purpose-built centre.”

Mr Raman said the centre would provide culturally-trained staff with culturally-specific food and activities.

Sri Om Care provides in-home care and day care for up to 400 seniors at six centres across western Sydney, including Seven Hills, Toongabbie and The Ponds.