The Aged Care Outbreak Management Support Supplement available to Government-funded aged care homes has been cut from $2.81 per day per bed, the rate received per bed per day until the end of December 2024, to only $1.65 per bed per day.
"In 2025, the updated COVID-19 Supplement reflects the decrease in the number of cases and outbreaks in aged care homes," the Department of Health and Aged Care's website states.
"The sector has improved its capability in preventing and managing COVID-19 outbreaks."
However, in January, 88 deaths from COVID-19 were reported in residential aged care, compared with fewer than 40 in December.
The COVID-19 vaccination rate for aged care residents has fallen to a six-month low, reflecting a drop off in the number of jabs received over the holiday period.
The number of residents getting vaccinated fell below 10,000 during two weeks in January, sending the vaccination rate to 41.8%, the lowest level since July 2024.
In the week to 30 January, there were outbreaks in 122 aged care homes, nearly 5% of all aged care homes.
The Supplement will be paid to providers until 30 September 2025.
