The Australian aged care system is in crisis as more older Australians are facing the prospect of being unable to access the care they need when they need it. In our Witness Statement to the Royal Commission on Aged Care Quality and Safety, UnitingCare Australia argued that the aged care system is not viable or sustainable in its current form as it “no longer meets the needs and expectations of its consumers and the Australian community more broadly”.
UnitingCare Australia worked with the Nous Group to develop a vision document – Ageing to our full potential – preparing for an older Australia. The vision presented in the document draws from the experience and practice-based evidence that resides within the UnitingCare network, insights from national and international research including consumer research and reports that have been commissioned or developed by the UnitingCare network.
The Report identifies five key components of our vision for the future:
UnitingCare Australia believes that every older Australian should be able to live well, as part of their community, with dignity and independence, and in a place of their choosing.
In the new environment of consumer-led and demand-driven aged care, older Australians should have access to the appropriate and affordable support and care services that they need, when they need them.
Australia’s Aged Care sector is in the national spotlight. The Aged Care Royal Commission is examining the sector, scrutinising its failings in order to create a sustainable model offering high quality alternatives for all.
Yes, there will be uncomfortable moments ahead for providers, but we do not shy away from this high-level examination.
Most importantly, the next 20 years provide an opportunity to embrace a system that better meets community expectations.
Real change takes time, vision and courage combined with resources and tangible, realistic actions. Currently Australia has no cohesive policy to deal with an ageing population. This needs to change.
As one of the most prosperous nations in the world, we can afford an increased investment in Aged Care.
Read more about UnitingCare Australia’s vision for aged care
UnitingCare Australia is calling on the Morrison Government to use the May Budget to adopt the priorities for reform detailed in the new report from the Australian Aged Care Collaboration (AACC): Aged Care – The Way Forward.
AUSTRALIA’s aged care industry today urged the Federal Government to adopt its 15-point plan to ensure older Australians get the most benefit in the quickest time from an improved aged care system.
The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is a watershed moment in Australia’s history, highlighting the reality of how we as a nation care for our older citizens.
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