The Defence Force will continue to provide support to the aged care sector as the sector grapples with COVID-19 outbreaks. 

The military program had been due to end in a fortnight but has now been extended until September.

Nursing homes are reporting acute staff shortages as a result of COVID-19 isolation requirements, leading to concerns some care could be compromised.

Defence Minister Richard Marles has told Today the government is doing everything possible to help the sector.

“Right now, we are seeing something like a thousand outbreaks in nursing homes around Australia,” he said.

“This is a very significant moment and it’s important we are doing everything we can, again, within our power to deal with this.

“Having the ADF involved is appropriate.”

Image: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images