Industry concerns over carbon costs

An aged care industry leader has expressed concerns that the sector may not receive adequate compensation now that the Commonwealth Government has outlined details of its carbon pollution reduction scheme.

The Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has pledged to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions to five per cent below 2000 levels by 2020.

The government will draw $1.4 billion from the new emissions trading scheme to provide compensation for businesses and community organisations.

This extra money would assist certain community groups to invest in energy-saving measures such as better lighting, heating and refrigeration equipment.

But Aged and Community Care Victoria CEO, Gerard Mansour is worried that aged care providers may miss out on the full support they need.

“ACCV is very concerned about the lack of recognition given to the aged care industry in discussions about the introduction of a new carbon pollution reduction scheme,” Mr Mansour said.

He pointed to independent modelling conducted by the Australia Institute which estimated that carbon trading would add $90,000 per year to the costs of a facility with an $8.5 million annual budget.

“Aged care providers need access to a government-funded advisory and assessment service which will allow them to undertake a free cost-benefit analysis for ‘greening’ their facilities and operations,” he said.

“While our industry is committed to protecting our frail elderly, the carbon tax will have a direct impact on aged care providers who are among the biggest users of power and water in Australia,’’ Mr Mansour said.