The newly tabled bill by the government aims to enhance the quality of health and care services for older Australians. A significant focus is on implementing strengthened quality standards, which will ensure that older individuals receive high-quality care tailored to their needs. Craig Gere has noted that while the bill outlines positive regulatory changes, there is much work to be done in understanding the complete implications of these reforms.
With the introduction of means-testing, many retirees will face increased costs for aged care starting next July. The community sentiment has shown a desire for an adequately funded care system, with transparency around funding allocation. Gere reassured that while accessible care remains pivotal, clear communication about the new pricing structure is essential in reducing potential anxieties among retirees.
The government has allocated $4.3 billion towards the Supported Home package, aiming to better support older citizens in receiving care at home. The current aged care system is fragmented, leading to delays in essential services, and this new funding seeks to mend those gaps. Building a knowledgeable and sustainable workforce is critical for implementing these home care services effectively, according to OPAN's leadership.
Craig Gere, CEO of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN), recently provided his insights on a new bill introduced in Parliament that could reshape the aged care system in Australia. He highlighted several key aspects of the 540-page document, noting that while there are many positive changes proposed, much detail still needs unpacking. The bill promises to strengthen quality standards across aged care, empower regulators, and enhance protections for older individuals receiving care. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of upholding the human rights of older persons, a significant shift from the current legislation. One of the most talked-about components of the plan is the introduction of means-testing for aged care, which will impact many retirees starting July next year. Gere shared that there is a general consensus among the community regarding the necessity for a well-funded and viable aged care system. While means-testing and income assessments have been in place previously, they have often lacked transparency and consistency. The proposed changes aim to address these issues by ensuring that funds are allocated effectively while maintaining government support for care services. The idea of a ‘no worse off’ principle has also been met with mixed reactions, signaling a need for clear communication regarding how these changes will affect current recipients of aged care services. Another key issue discussed is the $4.3 billion Supported Home package aimed at improving home care support for older citizens. Gere pointed out that most seniors prefer receiving care in their own homes, a sentiment echoed in conversations with advocates and families. However, the current system has been criticized for being fragmented, leading to delays in assessments and long waiting periods for home care packages. The new initiative promises to reduce these delays, ensuring services are better tailored to the needs of older individuals. Nevertheless, effective implementation will require building a capable workforce to meet the demand, addressing existing shortages in the aged care sector, and ensuring that care staff are well-trained and properly compensated. Lastly, while some aspects of the new bill are promising, Gere expressed concerns about certain rights of older people that need further clarification. He emphasized the importance of transparency and the ability for older citizens to voice their needs and concerns within the system. As OPAN continues to assess the new legislation, it remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of older Australians, ensuring that the final outcome of the reform is equitable and meets community expectations. With various stakeholders involved, the success of the new aged care bill will depend on consistent dialogue and commitment to improvement in older persons' care.MORE FUNDING! More committees, more parasites, more unions, more mates, more snouts at the trough.
The biggest problem with Aged care is the workforce, mostly filled with Migrants new to Australia who dont get a stuff about providing good care, they just want access to easy money.
Is a government paid Advertisement ? Just slip some media copy and then continue to do nothing
How many years they want to live for g... sake? It is not colonial times anymore. We have to pay all those support workers
I dont want to be a minority in my own country within my lifetime. Look after your elderly parents at home yourselves.
The only people funding this Albo reform are retirees with assets. Assets that you have left after a lifetime of paying taxes. The smoke and mirrors here are hiding a new form of death duties. But if you never saved a penny in your life, get in free.
Government wants that superannuation. Its all thats keeping banks afloat and Governments want a slice
