With the Federal Election due to take place by May, the Greens have unveiled their aged care policies. We don’t think they will fly.

One of their three key priorities is cutting home care wait times to 30 days by uncapping Home Care Packages.

‘De-rationing’ aged care supply is not a new idea.

The consumer peak body for older Australians, COTA Australia, has long advocated for wait times to be reduced and the rationing of aged care services to be lifted.

Speaking to former COTA Chief Executive and former Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care Ian Yates AM this week; he again confirmed his support for such a move.

The Aged Care Royal Commission had also recommended that access to aged care services be based on assessed need – a measure that was ‘accepted in-principle’ by the then-Coalition Government.

But how likely is it to happen – and how fair is it?

While there is no doubt wait times need to be reduced, the idea that the taxpayer should foot the full bill to make this happen doesn’t pass the pub test.

Research shows that 89% of Australians aged 65-plus own their own home outright.

While Australia has a responsibility to support its elderly, particularly those without means, the reality is the majority can afford to contribute to the cost of their care.

The mean dwelling value in Australia for the September 2024 quarter was just shy of $986,000.

The average home care funding is around $32,000 a year – even if an individual holds a Package for three years, that’s less than 10% of the value of their home. 

The taxpayer ratio is already set to slide from seven to one to just four to one within the next decade.

With defense, renewables and a growing young migrant population all placing demands on Government coffers, the country also needs to be looking after its younger generations. 

Can the Government realistically find the cash – and the staff – to support all older people?

No.

It’s a brave Government that asks its voter base to take one for the team and ease the pressure on their grandchildren.

So, full credit to the Albanese Government for getting the concept of increased consumer contributions – once considered unthinkable – over the line with the wider community.

As for the Greens: tell ‘em’ they’re dreamin’.