Technology-enabled cleaning innovation in sub-acute and aged care (Victoria)
Matthew Tetley, General Services Manager – Kingston
Organisation: Kingston Health (sub-acute and aged care services), Victoria, Australia
Contact details:
Phone: +61 439 055 334
Email: matthew.tetley@kingstonhealth.org.au
Postal address: 400 Warrigal Rd, Heatherton VIC 3192, Australia
This presentation explores the implementation and outcomes of technology-enabled cleaning systems across sub-acute and aged care environments in Victoria. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a persistent challenge in vulnerable populations, particularly within aged care settings where residents often have complex comorbidities. Traditional cleaning approaches, while essential, can be limited by variability in practice, workforce pressures, and lack of real-time performance data.
The project focuses on the integration of advanced cleaning technologies and data-driven systems to improve hygiene outcomes, workforce efficiency, and service transparency. Key innovations include the adoption of digital cleaning verification systems, and robotics. Abbreviations are defined as follows: healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
A structured implementation framework was applied, incorporating staff training, change management, and continuous performance monitoring. The approach emphasised frontline engagement, ensuring environmental services teams were empowered through accessible technology and clear performance feedback.
Practical outcomes have demonstrated measurable improvements across several key indicators. Cleaning compliance rates increased through the use of digital auditing tools, enabling real-time verification and accountability. Environmental bioburden testing showed a reduction in high-touch surface contamination following the introduction of equipment efficiency and robotics. Workforce productivity improved through streamlined workflows and reduced duplication, while staff confidence increased due to clearer expectations and supportive technology.
In addition, the initiative enhanced organisational visibility of cleaning performance. Dashboards and reporting systems enabled leadership to monitor trends, identify risk areas, and respond proactively to emerging issues. This data-driven approach has supported continuous improvement and strengthened infection prevention strategies across the organisation.
Importantly, the presentation will highlight lessons learned, including barriers to adoption such as initial staff resistance, training requirements, and integration with existing systems. Strategies used to overcome these challenges—such as co-design with staff, phased implementation, and ongoing education—will be shared to support replication in similar healthcare settings.
This work demonstrates how technology-enabled cleaning innovation can deliver tangible, measurable improvements in hygiene standards, operational efficiency, and patient safety in sub-acute and aged care environments. The presentation provides a practical, scalable model for organisations seeking to modernise environmental services and strengthen infection prevention outcomes.