Mr Redman said that he and The Nationals health spokesman Terry Waldron had made a joint approach to the State Government, seeking top-up funding to bolster HACC services to the Manjimup community.

“I was disturbed to learn that elderly Manjimup residents in need of HACC services have recently been denied assistance due to a lack of resources,” Mr Redman said.

“This funding deficiency has resulted in Manjimup HACC having to impose a waiting list for services for the first time in its history.

“HACC does a wonderful job of providing support to enable rural frail aged, and young people with disabilities, to remain in their own homes, and it’s vital that adequate funding is in place to facilitate that work.

“My understanding is that two elderly Manjimup people recently had to be refused vital support because funding has not kept pace with increased demand for services. I believe this resulted in one person having to remain in hospital whilst the other was returned home to the sole care of an elderly partner.”

Mr Redman said HACC was jointly funded by both the Federal and State Governments, but it was vital that the gravity of Manjimup’s situation was not clouded by debate over responsibility for fixing the funding gap.

“The unfortunate reality is that there are seniors within the Manjimup community who are being denied or delayed in receiving the HACC support they need and are entitled to, and that reality must be addressed,” he said.

“I am hopeful that the Health Minister will recognise the urgency of this issue and will intervene to ensure the adequate delivery of HACC services, not only to the Manjimup community but also to the residents of Pemberton and Northcliffe.”