The Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) is calling for increased funding to sustain essential community services and ensure older Australians can age independently in their own homes.
Minister Anika Wells and the Albanese Government announced a $37 million funding boost for aged care meals providers under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). While ACCPA welcomes this commitment, it highlights that further action is needed to address rising costs and ensure the sustainability of CHSP services.
Over the past year, ACCPA has engaged extensively with the Department of Health and Aged Care and the Government on critical issues related to community services, including funding, transition, and the implementation of the Support at Home program.
“ACCPA has consistently called for sustainable funding and adequate support to ensure the delivery of quality care during the transition to Support at Home,” said ACCPA CEO Tom Symondson.
“This 10 per cent cost-of-living adjustment is a welcome step forward. It also highlights the task we have ahead of us to address the rising costs faced by providers and to ensure the sustainability of CHSP services,” Mr Symondson added.
“The new Aged Care Act will have significant implications for CHSP providers. We need to make sure CHSP providers aren’t left behind and we continue to urge the Department to work closely with the sector on program design and changes.”
Mr Symondson also highlighted the challenges home care providers face in preparing for upcoming legislative and reform changes under the Support at Home funding model and IHACPA pricing structure.
“Providers need adequate time, resources, and funding to meet these changes. This includes essential services like care management, independent living, and meeting increasing workforce costs, including for above-award wages under the Stage 3 Work Value Case,” he said.
“Older Australians want to age independently in their own homes, but they need appropriate services and support to do so.”
ACCPA remains committed to working collaboratively with the government, providers, and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable, high-quality care for all older Australians.
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