Labor’s landmark Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Implementing Care Reform) Bill 2022 has passed Parliament, bringing with it changes such as 24/7 Registered Nurses.
The bill – which raised industry concerns that providers would not be able to meet the mandatory RN requirements – was introduced along with the Government’s Royal Commission response bill on the first sitting day of the new Parliament in July.
Alongside the nursing requirements, the Bill will also ensure regular publication of financial and operational reports from approved providers; ban exit fees; and allow the Government to cap Home Care Package administration and management fees.
According to Aged Care Minister Anika Wells (above), the bill will ensure a “fair and transparent system for older Australians, their families and carers”.
“24/7 registered nurses in residential aged care is a significant change to ensure high quality care for older Australians. This will be supported by the initiatives we have in place to grow the workforce and boost the skills of aged care nurses.
“Transparency is paramount to care recipients’ informed choice and control, and we want to see taxpayer funds being spent on what they are meant for, which is improving the care of older Australians,” she said.
