Despite one report last week the Federal Government would not address the Aged Care Taskforce's recommendations in the Budget, the absence of progress on that front, in particular on funding measures, has been met with frustration and disappointment by leaders in the sector.
"Can't plan"
“Older people must be deeply disappointed that the Government missed the opportunity of this Budget to respond to the Aged Care Taskforce and is not holistically tackling the funding issues in aged care," said Tracey Burton, Uniting NSW.ACT’s Chief Executive Officer.
“With the pause button still pressed on the Aged Care Taskforce recommendations and delay in finalisation of the new Aged Care Act, the sector can’t plan, we can’t strategise and we can’t act on the very real need we face, now and in the future, to meet the anticipated and the very real needs of older people.
“Unfortunately, with continuing uncertainty about how Australia will afford the aged care system our growing number of senior citizens will need, without reform we lack the ability to build new aged care homes or upgrade old ones.
"The impact on the hospital system will continue to be felt as senior citizens are unable to be discharged to care in their homes or in aged care.
“The Government now needs to dedicate itself to urgently finish the work of the Aged Care Taskforce to ensure the sustainability of the aged care sector so that older people can receive the support they need and age with dignity."
Budget Speech on Tuesday.
"Improve confidence"
Benetas CEO Sandra Hills OAM called on the Government to unlock crucial funding for the sector by committing to implementing the Aged Care Taskforce Report recommendations.
"To improve confidence in the sector, it is essential that the government commits to implementation of the Aged Care Taskforce Report recommendations soon, well in advance of the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook," Sandra said.
"Not allowing providers to retain a portion of the Refundable Accommodation Deposit, as part of this Budget, is a missed opportunity to provide immediate and crucial funding to support the sector."
"Financial roadmap"
Home Instead CEO Kris Whitehead said more needs to be done to accommodate the surging number of Australians wishing to age in their own homes.
"We had been expecting to see more aged care funding in the budget given the major reforms currently underway and proposed in our sector, however can appreciate and agree with the government's stance to take the time to carefully consider the Aged Care Taskforce’s Final Report and importantly, recommend appropriate outcomes and next steps.
“We understand that significant reform takes time but are hopeful providers will soon have a clear financial roadmap so they can evolve in response to changing demands and funding models."
"We need clarity"
Southern Cross Care Queensland's CEO Jason Eldering said the Government's decision to postpone crucial reforms is concerning.
“At this time of uncertainty, we need clarity and conviction to act on the Taskforce's recommendations when the sector requires decisive leadership and direction to ensure our aged care services remain world-class now and into the future,” Jason said.
on Budget night.
“There is urgent need for reforms to address the challenges of our aging population, especially given the unique pressures faced by regional providers compared to metropolitan ones.
“There is a need for immediate action, noting that regional Australians will likely bear the brunt of the Government's inaction.
“The impact of the industry's underinvestment due to a lack of direction is playing out now with increased bed blocking in public and private hospitals, growing waiting lists for residential aged care and inadequate access to home care services."
"No more kicking the can down the road"
Ryman Australia CEO Cameron Holland said tackling the "big, systemic problems facing the aged care sector is going to take time" but "there can be no more kicking the can down the road.
“The Aged Care Task Force’s recommendations have been with the government for almost six months.
"They need to clearly state their position on those recommendations as soon as possible, roll them into the new Aged Care Act, and give operators and consumers certainty about the path forward."
Maintain reform momentum
Natasha Chadwick, Founder and Managing Director of NewDirection Care, said the reform momentum "must be maintained".
"We wait with anticipation to see the Government’s response to the Aged Care Taskforce Report and progress on the new Aged Care Act.”
See also: Budget allocation for home care may compound pressure on waiting lists
