Budget response – Pay increases welcomed but crucial support needed to implement once-in-a-generation sector reform

Statement attributable to Benetas CEO Sandra Hills OAM

Benetas has acknowledged the Government’s commitment to funding pay increases for nurses in the Federal Budget, while calling for more clarity to allow the sector to safely implement crucial reforms.

The reforms provide us with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redesign the system and enable a better experience for Australians.

Older Australians have a right to expect that the reforms will be set up for success by allowing providers enough time to establish and deliver new operating models, models of care, processes, systems and training.

The sector needs more support and clarity from the Government to ensure it is appropriately positioned to responsibly implement these significant changes in a phased approach, to continue to maintain high levels of care for older Australians.

In addition to supporting the sector’s readiness to implement reforms, we need more investment in new programs that can proactively support people to live in their homes such as assistive technology, and wellness and re-ablement programs focused on improved health outcomes.

Regarding workforce pressures, the Aged Care Royal Commission reported an estimated need for more than 130,000 additional, full-time equivalent workers by 2050 – a 70% increase on current levels.

While we acknowledge the Government’s commitment to funding the Fair Work Commission’s Work Value Case as a positive development, we know that the sector is in dire need of a workforce strategy that takes a longer-term view on how to attract and retain aged care workers.

We owe it to older Australians to ensure the foundations of these reforms are strong enough to support the growing demand placed on the aged care sector.