What's Happening?
Ageing Australia has urged the federal government to implement significant funding and workforce reforms in the upcoming federal budget to address the challenges posed by the country's rapidly ageing population. The organization emphasizes the need for increased
capital funding for residential care and enhanced support for older individuals wishing to remain at home. Key proposals include reviewing the Australian National Aged Care Classification funding model, providing low-interest loans, and expanding the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program. Additionally, Ageing Australia advocates for the creation of a national Essential Skills Visa to facilitate international recruitment of aged and community care workers, aiming to address workforce shortages projected to reach a shortfall of 400,000 workers by 2050.
Why It's Important?
The proposed reforms are crucial for ensuring the sustainability of Australia's aged care system, which is under pressure due to demographic changes. With the number of Australians aged 70 or over expected to reach 2.3 million by 2044, the current infrastructure and workforce are insufficient to meet future demands. Implementing these reforms could safeguard the quality of care for older Australians, reduce hospital pressures, and provide confidence that care will be available when needed. The focus on workforce expansion and infrastructure investment is also vital for economic stability, as it addresses both employment and healthcare needs.
What's Next?
If the government adopts these measures, it could lead to significant improvements in the aged care sector, including better alignment of funding with care costs and increased investment in modern facilities. The introduction of a national Essential Skills Visa could expedite the recruitment of international workers, alleviating workforce shortages. Delaying price caps on Support at Home services and increasing funding for care management could further enhance service delivery. These steps would require careful planning and collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and community organizations to ensure successful implementation.
