Australia | The Federal Government has delayed the commencement of the new Aged Care Act reforms, despite strong reiteration from advocacy groups.
The landmark reforms were initially earmarked from July 1st, however this could be pushed back as far as July 2025, as the government has decided to focus on feedback for the new legislation. The proposed new law has included changes to the standards of residents' rights, creating a simpler system, and the quality of care residents receive. The delay has left industry experts concerned about the uncertainty of the aged care sector in its current form.
Minister for Aged Care, Hon Anika Wells, said that the reforms were a once-in-a-generation opportunity to amend the current laws, and it was vital that the Federal Government got it right.
"The new Act is an incredibly important milestone on the Albanese Government’s mission to lift the standard of aged care in Australia and deliver a high quality, person-centred service. That is why the Government is committed to working with all members of Parliament to implement these reforms," said Wells.
Despite the setback, the Albanese Government has already implemented its five aged care election commitments, including 24/7 nursing, a record $11.3 billion pay rise for aged care workers and increased transparency through Dollars to Care.
A Royal Commission into the Australian Aged Care sector, held between 2018 and 2021, presented a damning report that indicated that previous governments, the national regulator and aged-care providers had ignored the abuse, neglect and below-average care that nursing home residents experienced for decades.
Minister Wells said that the current government has significantly improved the local sector.
"There has been a reduction in the number of pressure injuries, physical restraints, significant unplanned weight loss and falls while we are also seeing improvements in the Star Ratings data, with fewer one and two-star ratings and more four and five-star ratings."
To read more industry news, click here.
