mecwacare welcomes the government’s commitment to funding wage increases for aged care nurses and the allocation of funding to support the implementation of the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home program.
These increases are justly deserved and are directly contributing to lower attrition and better attraction within the workforce. Government funding of workforce pay increases is essential to ensuring a high-quality aged care sector that meets the needs of older Australians.
However, to ensure sustainability of the Sector – which is what the New Aged Care Act primarily aims to do – significant transition and implementation funding, technology investment and clarity of the rules and timelines is required.
These changes can be implemented efficiently and effectively, when government provides greater clarity on the full extent of the reforms – now. Clear and timely guidance is critical to enabling aged care providers to make informed decisions, plan for workforce requirements, and adapt operational environments to meet new regulatory and service delivery expectations.
Furthermore, mecwacare urges the opposition to commit to the same level of support for aged care funding, ensuring continuity and stability for the sector regardless of future government changes. A bipartisan approach to aged care reform is vital to safeguarding the long-term wellbeing of older Australians and the workforce that cares for them.
We look forward to working collaboratively with all levels of government to ensure these reforms achieve their intended outcomes while maintaining continuity of care for our clients and residents.
