The South Australian Government has had its praises sung by Ageing Australia for its latest funding initiatives to assist with a growing population.
Ageing Australia congratulates the South Australian Government for prioritising older people, with a series of funding announcements to help aged care grow along with the state’s ageing population.
The Malinauskas Government has announced the establishment of a AUD 250 million no-interest loan scheme to deliver up to 650 aged care beds across South Australia.
They also announced a dedicated Health and Aged Care Precinct at the former Women’s and children’s hospital with 600 beds.
To help transition older patients from hospital, the Malinauskas Government will also re-activate the College Grove aged care home, delivering another 70 beds.
“The South Australian Government’s commitments prove that aged care isn’t just a responsibility for the Federal Government, but all Governments,” said Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson.
“Investment in aged care now improves the lives of older Australians, takes pressure off hospitals, and helps prepare for the future. Australia’s population is rapidly ageing. Over the next 40 years those aged over 85 will triple, and we need to be ready. Last year Australia added about 800 aged care beds, when we should be building 10, 000 a year,” he added.
“This commitment by the South Australian Government should serve as an example of what other states and territories can do to help older people now and in the future.”
“Western Australia is another example of how states can do their bit. The Cook Government has recently committed to a AUD 100 million Low Interest Loan Scheme to support providers to build beds for older people with lower means. In addition, Victorian government has a long history of providing aged care services, particularly for those older people with higher needs.”
“These examples prove ageing is everyone’s business.”
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