Aged Care Minister Anika Wells has declared a need for urgent reform in the sector, including potential co-contributions for aged care.
Speaking to The Guardian, Ms Wells (above) described the sector as being in crisis, with the Federal Government already propping up a number of providers.
“It is worse than we thought. Every rock I turn over, it is worse than we thought and I think that is the experience across the board.
“The sector is in crisis. It is an absolute mess that we have inherited. It was in crisis before COVID hit, and COVID has exacerbated all of those conditions, particularly workforce,” she said.
The Minister said “urgent reform” is needed, and The Guardian reported that the Government is open to new funding options.
“Let’s not shy away from this, this is a big piece of work, it is not a one-term project, it has drifted for decades and it is going to take more than one term because these are big existential questions.
“In order to make sure the sector is financially sustainable, in order to deliver the reforms the Royal Commission recommended… I am open to all options,” she said.
T
he Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) has welcomed Ms Wells’ comments, with interim CEO Paul Sadler (pictured) saying the peak body has been sounding the alarm for some time over workforce and funding issues.
“With two thirds of aged care providers operating in deficit while still managing the impact of the pandemic with fewer staff than needed, something has to give,” he said.
Paul said ACCPA is eager to work with Ms Wells, and Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler, on delivering reforms set out by the Royal Commission.
“This means addressing pay and conditions for aged care workers and a sustainable funding model for the sector.
“We look forward to working with Ministers Butler and Wells on practical solutions which maintain important aged care and support services for older people,” he said.
