Our annual end-of-year Q&A series offers leaders and influencers in aged care the chance to share their views and expectations for the year ahead. Submissions can be sent to news@insideageing.com.au
Q1: What were your highlights for 2024?
My 2024 highlight has been the passion and resilience of our aged care workers. I have observed a marked increase in interest in residential aged care personal carer careers, even amidst strong demand across the NDIS, Hospital, home care and agency sectors.
Q2: What are you most looking forward to in 2025?
In 2025 I look forward to clarifying the aged care regulatory and financial framework, which can unlock the next generation of development and investment. It is very difficult to sufficiently explain to government policy decision-makers the true cost of delivering aged care to the specifications prescribed by the government, and then getting the government to pay!
The key to a productive 2025 in aged care will be the government’s acceptance that the accommodation supplemented must rise significantly to account for the increase of accommodation maintenance and construction costs.
Q3: What books will you be reading over the summer holiday break?
Over the summer, I will be reading The Chairman’s Lounge by Joe Aston. He is a hilarious journalist who explores the salacious topic of politicians and their affection for special treatment by Qantas.
I will also be reading Lords of Easy Money by Christopher Leonard – an examination of the US Federal Reserve’s role in exacerbating inequality and asset bubbles.
Our end-of-year Q&A series is supported by Altura Learning, dedicated to helping Australian aged care providers enhance workforce skills and drive business growth.
