Navigating the Future of Aged Care in Australia: Understanding the 2024 Reforms

Upcoming Changes to Australia's Aged Care System

The aged care landscape in Australia is set for a significant transformation with the proposed Aged Care Act, scheduled to commence on July 1, 2024. The new act promises a rights-based approach to caring for older Australians and consolidates multiple pieces of existing legislation.

Key improvements proposed in the new act include establishing a complaints commissioner, increasing whistleblower protections, and streamlining access to aged care through a single-assessment process. However, there are significant issues such as fees, payments, subsidies, and the prioritization of people with different needs that are yet to be addressed.

The Role of the Federal Government in Aged Care

Historically, the federal government has lacked specific powers over aged care. The new act aims to address this by patching together a range of other powers, bringing the current aged care system, including recent reforms, under a single consistent regulatory regime. This will include the introduction of Star Ratings for individual aged care homes.

Future Reforms and the Support at Home Program

Despite the significant changes proposed in the new act, further reforms are expected in the near future. These include changes to payment arrangements and the introduction of a new Support at Home program. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care is reforming the in-home aged care system to help older people live independently at home for longer. The Support at Home program, set to replace existing programs such as Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme from 1 July 2025, aims to improve access to services, equipment, and home modifications to help older people remain healthy, active, and socially connected to their community.

Industry Responses to the Proposed Reforms

Various stakeholders in the aged care sector have issued responses to the proposed reforms. Advocacy organizations for older people in Australia have released a Key Issues Paper in response to the Federal Government's Aged Care Act Exposure Draft, outlining major concerns and areas of improvement needed in the new Aged Care Act. They have highlighted the need for further changes to ensure the protection of older people's rights in the new Act.

Looking at Palliative Care Reforms

In addition to the aged care reforms, Palliative Care Australia has submitted a comprehensive plan to the 2024-2025 Federal Budget, emphasizing the need for reforms to improve palliative care in the country. The plan calls for changes to the eligibility criteria for the NDIS to ensure access to palliative care services, and a proposal for an interim program of daily living supports for vulnerable people.

Getting Ready for the Changes

With less than five months left to finalize the details, the drafting of the new act is a golden opportunity to provide a sustainable and robust system for older Australians. Registered providers are encouraged to start preparing for the upcoming changes. The Australian Government is engaging with the aged care sector and older people to refine the program and has commissioned a range of work to develop the new Support at Home program. Online Q&A sessions and engagement opportunities are available for those interested in getting involved.