Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells, has revealed new data is now available on My Aged Care, including how much providers are spending on care and nursing, administration, and food - and how the data compares to sector averages.
It's another increase in transparency for residential aged care providers - who now may have to answer questions from would-be clients such as why they are spending 25% less than the sector average on care and nursing.
Or potential consumers may simply opt for a different aged care home based on the data.
The 'Dollars to Care' measure will make aged care providers more accountable for how they spend taxpayer dollars, and will be a powerful tool for consumers making decisions about aged care, said the Minister.
“We recognise that the majority of aged care providers are working to deliver high quality and safe care but we have to shine a light on those who aren’t and take action," said Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells.
“I have asked the Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care to refer aged care providers that are doing the wrong thing to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and the Fair Work Ombudsmen.”
In a statement, the Minister said the information shows that across the sector, more than half a provider's expenses are spent on care for residents.
