The national body for the largest not-for-profit aged care provider network welcomes passage of the landmark Aged Care Act in Parliament today.

“This once-in-a-generation reform provides much needed certainty for older Australians, aged care workers, and providers across the country”, said UnitingCare Australia National Director, Claerwen Little.

“Australia’s aged care system requires fundamental, structural reform to ensure its financial sustainability, while guaranteeing high-quality care, a skilled workforce, and an equitable distribution of services – and the new Act passed today is a major step forward toward lasting reform.

“We have consistently advocated for a sustainable sector, with particular emphasis on ensuring the safety net is genuinely adequate for those without the means to contribute to their care”.

UnitingCare Australia made a comprehensive submission to the recent Senate Inquiry, and UnitingCare Network CEOs appeared at six hearings across the country. National Director, Claerwen Little, has been appointed to the Aged Care Transition Taskforce.

“We thank the Government and the Opposition for actively listening and engaging throughout this important process. We look forward to continuing to work together through the transition to ensure every older person can access the aged care they deserve”.

About UnitingCare Australia

UnitingCare Australia is the national body for the Uniting Church’s community services, the largest social services network in Australia. The UnitingCare network supports 1.4 million people every year across 1,600 sites in urban, rural, and remote communities, with over 50,000 staff and 30,000 volunteers. It is the largest network of not-for-profit aged care providers nationally, supporting 97,000 older people, comprising 8.5% of total residential beds and 10% of Home Care Packages nationally. Over 80% of our workforce and 60% of our services recipients are women.

Media contact: Anna Page – annap@nat.unitingcare.org.au – 0432 560 975