Anika Wells (pictured), Minister for Aged Care, has announced the Government will spend $221 million over four years to help improve First Nations people’s access to aged care.
The Government is allocating:
- $106 million to provide face-to-face support for older First Nations people, and
- $115 million to build culturally safe aged care facilities.
“The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety recommended the Government ensure that the new aged care system makes specific and adequate provision for the diverse and changing needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people – and so we are doing just that,” she said in a statement.
In partnership with the Government, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) will work with Aboriginal community organisations to try to assist older First Nations people and their families access aged care services.
A workforce of around 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff will provide support – also a Royal Commission recommendation.
Four National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care (NATSIFAC) services in SA, the NT and QLD will receive funding to construct culturally safe, purpose-built facilities.
"This grant funding empowers older First Nations people, communities and NATSIFAC providers to contribute to the development of contemporary building design, suitable for people living with dementia, limited mobility, cultural needs and aligned with social expectations," Minister Wells said.
