Govt says aged care is a priority, but no additional funding announced
The aged care sector and its workforce are not forgotten in this crisis, the aged care minister tells Australian Ageing Agenda, but he has not given his support to the sector’s calls for additional funding.
The aged care sector and its workforce are not forgotten in this crisis, the aged care minister tells Australian Ageing Agenda, but he has not given his support to the sector’s calls for additional funding.
A united aged care sector of seven national organisations representing aged care provider called for a $1.3 billion rescue package for already financially stressed providers this week.
Among their demands were $15 per resident per day for six months worth $546 million to meet direct care costs and $500 million for information technology measures and training to reduce social isolation and loneliness (read more here).
In response to AAA’s questions about his response to the sector’s proposal, Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck said the Federal Government would continue to work closely with aged care stakeholders.
“The aged care sector and its workforce are not forgotten in this crisis,” Mr Colbeck told AAA.
He reiterated the $545 million aged care funding measures announced in March to support the workforce and providers during COVID-19 and the surge workforce measures and support for remote providers announced over the weekend.
But he did not commit to providing what the aged care sector is calling for in its proposal.
“Our aged care workers are doing a remarkable job under enormous pressure.
“They will remain a focus as we continue to ensure the health and wellbeing of senior Australians,” Mr Colbeck said.
The aged care peaks developed the proposal because of an inadequate response from government about provider’s underlying financial situation, which they say is being pushed closer to breaking point because of the pandemic.
The Opposition is also calling for more support for the aged care sector.
Shadow Minister for Ageing and Seniors Julie Collins said the government must do more to support Australia’s aged care system and protect older Australians from COVID-19.
“The Morrison Government is yet to detail how it will ensure the viability of aged care providers through this incredibly difficult period,” Ms Collins said.
“It is vitally important workers and providers are supported to ensure that we limit the transmission of COVID-19 in aged care.”
She reiterated calls for targeted support for casual aged care workers who need to take sick leave.
“Casual workers in aged care must be supported to take leave and not be left worse off. This is crucial to limiting the transmission of COVID-19.”
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And yet it has become a requirement to advise your aged care employer that you have another job. As most employers have just changed their policy to prohibit other jobs this is going to result in job losses or resignations or deceit. Apparently it is to assist with Contact tracing. Lots of staff will now fall below the poverty line and leave aged care floundering again. I know as a nurse of 30 years experience my second job is on the line which will make my life difficult as a single parent. A badly thought out plan.