The 15% wage rise for aged care workers may have grabbed the headlines last week – but the newly established Aged Care Taskforce is the country’s best chance of establishing a fair and equitable aged care system that will deliver confidence to residents, families and providers.
As we report in this issue, the new Taskforce has been tasked with reviewing the funding arrangements for aged care and developing options for a system that is “fair and equitable for all Australians.”
In short, the Government is seriously weighing up Plan B – increasing consumer contributions for older Australians who can afford to pay for their accommodation and daily living services, while continuing to support those without the financial means – and it could happen sooner rather than later.
Aged Care Minister Anika Wells has indicated that the Taskforce could be presenting its outcomes in time for the MYEFO – just six months away.
With the Government also confirming funding for developing and delivering a new Aged Care Act – and the Department of Health and Aged Care confirming that consultation on the Act will happen later this year – this is the chance to enshrine increased consumer contributions into the legislation within the next 12 months.
All operators need to get behind the Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) and be making their voices heard as the Government seeks feedback on how to sustainably fund aged care into the future over the coming weeks and months.
See the next story.
