News
3 December, 2025
Alkira investigation confirms service issues
THE Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has confirmed it has identified issues related to the care and services being provided at Alkira Toogoolawah, following a second unannounced visit at the facility on November 18 and 19.
Byw Marina Gomide
THE Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has confirmed it has identified issues related to the care and services being provided at Alkira Toogoolawah, following a second unannounced visit at the facility on November 18 and 19.
This comes after the Commission undertook an unannounced audit on October 15 and 16, as a result of a letter sent by Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, outlining various concerns raised by residents and families.
Allegations included poor food quality, including feeding residents bread or party pies for meals, staff shortages and low standard of care.
Deputy Commissioner, Regulatory Operations, Gary Rake, said they returned to Alkira on November 18 and 19 to observe the practices and speak to residents, their representatives, and staff.
“The Commission continues to monitor Respect Toogoolawah Alkira as the registered provider, Respect Group, works to address identified issues at the service,” he said.
“All aged care providers are required to deliver safe, quality care in accordance with the Aged Care Act 2024 and Aged Care Quality Standards.
“Where we have concerns about a provider not meeting their obligations, we engage closely with them to ensure timely resolution and that residents are safe.”
Mr Rake said if a provider is “slow, ineffective, or otherwise fails to address issues” or is placing residents at risk, the Commission will take “further action”.
This can include requiring the provider to take specific actions, placing conditions on their registration, or varying or revoking their registration.
Respect CEO, Jason Binder, said they can confirm the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has conducted a recent visit to Alkira Toogoolawah, but added they have not received any formal directions or compliance orders.
“Of course we work with the Commission when they attend any of our homes to ensure compliance,” he said.
“Our priority remains the wellbeing of residents. We are listening to their feedback, engaging with families and ensuring that concerns are dealt with quickly.
“We want to reassure residents, their representatives, and the community that Respect is committed to providing high-quality care at Alkira.”
Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, told The Sentinel he is “pleased” the Aged Care Quality Commission is continuing to investigate Alkira and that Respect is working to address issues he raised with the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae, on behalf of residents and families.
“The Minister has advised me that the Commission will take appropriate action if it finds the provider is not meeting its obligations,” he said.
“We are committed to ensuring every residential aged care provider provides nutritious, enjoyable food and drinks tailored to their residents’ needs and preferences.”
Mr Binder, along with Respect Chief Operating Officer, Brett Menzies, met with roughly 80 Alkira families and residents in October to address concerns raised, after Mr Neumann held a meeting earlier in the month with over 100 locals.
The Aged Care Quality Commission has a dedicated Food, Nutrition and Dining Hotline on 1800 844 044 where people can raise concerns, and get information and advice about the food, nutrition and dining experience in aged care.
Anyone with concerns is urged to contact the Commission on 1800 951 822 or visit agedcarequality.gov.au
