The CEO of the Sydney-based Not For Profit has called for a significant overhaul in aged care, arguing that reducing “bureaucratic red tape and regulatory burdens” would allow providers to shift focus from administrative and financial obstacles to delivering higher standards of care for older Australians.
In her contribution to The Weekly SOURCE’s ‘political wishlist’ series, where aged care leaders outline their key priorities for the next elected Government, Diana stressed the need for a streamlined aged care funding model to “reduce bureaucracy and enhance efficiency.”
“The current funding system is complex, fragmented, and difficult to navigate,” she explained, adding that simplifying application and reporting processes, allowing greater flexibility in how funds are used, and reducing duplication across regulatory frameworks are essential reforms.
Grants for aged care upgrades and new builds
Diana also highlighted the need for more Government support in the form of capital grants to meet the growing demand for aged care services, driven by the ageing Baby Boomer population.
“The Australian Government should implement a targeted capital grants program to help providers refurbish existing facilities and build new ones,” she said. “Priority should be given to regions with high demand for aged care services, both in metro and regional areas.”
Developing a Skilled Workforce Strategy
Another area for urgent reform, Diana emphasised, is workforce development. With the skills gap in aged care continuing to widen, she proposed a comprehensive Skilled Workforce Strategy that could include:
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Subsidised education and certification programs for aged care workers
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Career progression frameworks and mentorship opportunities
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Specialised immigration pathways for qualified professionals
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Financial incentives for upskilling and specialization
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Promotion of the aged care profession to attract new entrants, especially in rural and remote areas
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Collaboration between providers and educational institutions
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Technology training to improve care and operational efficiency
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Financial support for providers to implement software systems that manage aged care roles
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Support for labour agreements
St Basil’s NSW/ACT, founded by the Greek Orthodox Church, employs over 700 staff and operates aged care homes in Randwick, Lakemba, Miranda, and Kogarah. The organisation also offers independent living units in Miranda and Randwick and delivers home care services.
Read our previous 'political wishlist' articles:
“Bureaucracy over care”: Sasha Andrews urges aged care policy pause
Support at Home reforms must be staged: HammondCare CEO Andrew Thorburn's 'political wishlist'
Level the playing field on payroll tax: Homestyle Aged Care CEO Tim Humphries’ political wishlist
Seven years since a workforce strategy: Juniper CEO Russell Bricknell’s ‘political wishlist’
“Whining for more money won’t cut it”: IRT CEO Patrick Reid’s political wishlist