Australians have been asked for their feedback on the roles and functions of the new Aged Care Inspector General role.

Ian Yates, who was chief executive of Council on the Ageing (COTA) for 30 years, is currently interim Aged Care Inspector General. However, establishing the Inspector General and supporting office requires the government to pass new legislation. It’s expected the legislation will be passed midway through 2023.

Establishing an Inspector General of Aged Care was a recommendation of the Royal Commission.

The draft bill was drawn up following consultation with the Council of Elders and the National Aged Care Advisory Council. It covers the role and functions of the inspector general, oversight, monitoring, reporting, protections for whistleblowers and civil penalties.

“The establishment of the Interim Inspector General, and later, Inspector General of Aged Care, presents an opportunity to address long-standing issues with the aged care system,” Ian said when his appointment was announced.

“I am confident we can help build community confidence in an accountable and transparent aged care system that meets the diverse needs of older Australians, their families and carers.”

You can read the Draft Bill here.

Details of how to provide feedback are here. Feedback accepted until 27 January 2023.