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:
- Compassion, dignity and rights of people as they age
- Accessibility of services
- Quality, safety and innovation
- Viability and sustainability
- A skilled and resourced care workforce
Our vision
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.
Our aged care network
Aged Care: Australia deserves better
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.
Doing nothing is not an option.
Read more about UnitingCare Australia’s vision for aged care:
