David Tune to review quality regulator
David Tune has been appointed to review the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
Retired public servant David Tune has been appointed the independent reviewer to lead the capability review of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
Former secretary of the Department of Finance and Deregulation, Mr Tune has undertaken several reviews in the past, including the Legislated Review of Aged Care 2017, which investigated the effectiveness of the Living Longer Better reforms that began in 2012.
A recommendation of the aged care royal commission, the capability review of the sector’s regulator was announced by the Labor Government in July after the former Coalition Government failed to act on the commission’s advice.
Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said in a statement: “It was critical we appoint the right person, with the right expertise and knowledge of the sector to deliver this important piece of work.”
She added: “I have full confidence that Mr Tune – a former Australian public servant for 38 years – has the independence and expertise to undertake this review.”
Established on 1 January 2019, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is responsible for protecting and improving the safety, health, wellbeing and quality of life of older Australians receiving government-funded aged care services.
Among other things, Mr Tune’s review will consider whether the commission has the necessary regulatory and investigatory skills, and assessment and enforcement skills to meet its remit.
The terms of reference for the capability review have been finalised with input from key sector stakeholders including:
- Aged and Community Care Providers Association
- Older Persons Advocacy Network
- Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council
- National Aged Care Advisory Council
- Council on the Ageing
- Council of Elders.
Commencing this month, the review’s final report is expected to land in the first half of 2023.
Meanwhile, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s activities will proceed as normal. “We will continue to work closely with the commission to deliver significant reform to aged care,” said Ms Wells.
Main image: David Tune
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I welcome the independent review of the Aged care Quality Commission. Unfortunately it is far too late for many residents who have not had the assistance requested of the agency when required. Ongoing abuse and neglect is continuing in residential care facilities and even after restructures the “Commission/Regulator” has been unable to protect the vulnerable people.
At last … the timing of this is promising. I feel quite sure Mr Tune will uncover the penalty-based system imposed by the Aged Care Quality Commission is not working and departs from key principles that inform safety and quality. Specifically, the ‘responsive and risk-based proportionate approach to regulation’ lacks theoretical rigor , is discretionary and lacks understanding.