Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) and Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) will finally become one unified organisation on July 1 after members voted overwhelmingly for the proposal.
The new aged care peak body – to be called Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) – will come into effect from 1 July, having gained the support of 99% of LASA and 95% of ACSA, and is a response
to the Royal Commission’s call for greater industry collaboration and united leadership.
UnitingCare Australia National Director Claerwen Little (pictured), who served as Chair of the Transformation Steering Committee formed to guide the transition, said the new organisation would be able to work towards transformational change for the sector.
“The sector has stepped up to the challenge and delivered a key recommendation of the Royal Commission – we are moving forward with one, united aged care peak body. A body that will represent and support all providers in the aged care sector.
“The process of change started some time ago, and has involved a lot of hard work, deliberation and determination from many people. Many have been waiting patiently for this moment to come – and it is finally here,” she said.
According to ACCPA, its focus areas moving forward will include:
- Building on the combined resources, experience, expertise and rich history of ACSA, LASA and others by complementing and enhancing each organisation’s strengths
- Leading proactive and positive change by providing leadership that assures authoritative guidance, communication, and advocacy
- Acting as one voice for influence by uniting the diverse range of aged care providers under one single advocacy agenda
- Valuing and representing individual member voices
- Delivering valued member services by offering an enhanced suite of services at scale
- Providing value for money by applying flexible and appropriate membership fees
- Proactively partnering for change by deepening sector relationships to enhance advocacy
“This is a very important moment, and a once in a lifetime opportunity to be unified in voice and purpose and hold Government to account as we work toward reform.
“I encourage the entire sector to get on board, help shape this new organisation so it can reflect the needs and views of all within the industry, and support the very best practice in care and support for older Australians,” said Claerwen.
