In 1954, the factors at the forefront of Government planning were the rapid population growth, expansion of metropolitan Adelaide, and pressure of an increasing number of elderly people.
That year, the Federal Budget introduced the new ‘Homes for the Aged’ Act — a £1-for-£1 subsidy on monies raised for new buildings that specifically provided accommodation for older people. Shortly thereafter, Resthaven qualified for Commonwealth support under the new Act.
Resthaven also received a £10,000 cheque from Senator George McLeay to further the work at Resthaven Malvern; he recognised that this home was ‘a fine project’, worthy of ‘tribute’.
The arrival of large-scale government assistance alleviated financial anxieties and assisted in developing sites. Yet, with the blessing, came increased pressure; for now, with funding possible, larger dreams could be dreamt and broader plans made for this vast ministry. Government funding, then, was responsible for the rapid development of Resthaven.
.svg)
.svg)