Hope for housing in stimulus package

The Rudd Government’s commitment to spend $6.4 billion on social housing components as part of its proposed $42 billion stimulus package has been welcomed by Aged and Community Services Australia (ACSA).

The peak body says the initiative will go some way towards addressing the housing and accommodation needs of older Australians.

“While affordable housing is a critical factor for the well being of all Australians, accommodation for older members of the community has tended to fall below the radar,” said ACSA’s CEO, Greg Mundy.

“Housing stress, caused by the inability to meet the costs of keeping a roof over your head, is particularly significant for older people with increasingly limited resources.”

ACSA’s state-based organisations will approach the state governments to ensure a range of housing options for older Australians are included in their presentations to the federal government.

“This is an exciting initiative which can better the homes and lives of older Australians, real building blocks for a healthier future for aged care,” said Mr Mundy.

But Mr Mundy stressed that a proper evaluation of aged care funding must remain firmly on the agenda, as the real costs of service provision and the capital needed for aged care beds continue to exceed the financial support provided by governments.