The peak body for aged care providers has welcomed Government assurances that Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) customers will have 12 months to enter into new service agreements, but says the surprise new requirement should be waived for very small providers and simplified for older Australians receiving a small number of services.
Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson said, "We believe there should also be exemptions for very small providers, particularly for those with grants as small as $10,000 operating in rural areas, and simplified agreements should be allowed for older people receiving minimal services.
“Many older Australians have never had to sign agreements for CHSP services. If these changes proceed, people who receive even small amounts of support, such as occasional transport to medical appointments or a few meals a week, will need to complete the new paperwork.
“CHSP services are critical in keeping older Australians independent and living in their own homes.
"Additional red tape will likely make many avoid services altogether, including those most in need, which means we must tread carefully."
Tom told The Weekly SOURCE that Ageing Australia will hold a CHSP Summit early in the next Government’s term with the intention of consulting with providers on CHSP reforms.
Minister for Aged Care
Last week, the CEO said the new service agreement requirement would make complying with the new Act by 1 July 2025 "truly impossible" and could jeopardise care for more than 830,000 CHSP clients.
In response, the Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said providers will have up to 12 months to enter new service agreements if Labor is returned to power.
"The Albanese Labor Government is deeming existing CHSP arrangements under the new Aged Care Act from 1 July 2025 for a period of up to twelve months," she said.
"This will ensure service continuity for CHSP recipients with existing arrangements."
