Updated
Aged care service provider, McLean Care, says it's been given a six-month extension to install fire sprinklers at its Inverell nursing home facility.
Chief Executive Officer, Sue Thompson, says McLean sought the extension in case contractors were unable to complete the retro-fit by the government's September deadline.
On Wednesday, the state government released a progress report showing only 24 per cent of facilities will meet the September deadline for installation of the fire systems.
A second, larger group has until March 2016.
Sue Thompson says McLean took the decision to ask for extra time because the penalties for not completing the work on time are very severe.
"There would be significant implications, very significant implications if the Commonwealth became involved, and it probably would be very difficult for organisations to actually remain in service, if there was a non-compliance with the deadline," she said.
"That's why it's so important, it is that safety net."
Sue Thompson says it's been very difficult to secure appropriately-qualified tradespeople to complete the fire sprinkler installation on time.
"Currently the industry is experiencing significant delays in the provision of shop front drawings, which are part of the design process," she said.
"Obtaining the relevant equipment necessary for the sprinkler retro-fit has been difficult and that's purely a market-driven delay."
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