Restarting Australia’s economy
The total federal government funding for aged care is increased by $2.2 billion to $23.9 billion in 2020-21.
As with last year’s Budget, we are concerned that the fiscal allocation and policy implications don’t go far enough. The Australian aged care industry and the challenges older Australians, and their families, are living with are significant and require major systemic reform. The Treasurer opened his commentary on aged care funding within this budget highlighting that the government is waiting until the final report of the existing Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which is due to be submitted in February 2021. This is now over three years Australians have known major system, policy and funding changes are required for the aged care industry, however must wait for the recommendations and decisions linked to the Aged Care Royal Commission.
The additional 23,000 Home Care Packages is commendable in light of it being the largest single increase in additional package from the federal government in recent years. However, it is against the backdrop of over 75,000 or more Australians, who have already been assessed as eligible for a certain level of Home Care Package. This boost by the government in this year’s Budget is a precursor to the likelihood of significantly large policy and funding reforms in the future.
Implications for employers
Implications for individuals
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