The Albanese Government is allocating $318 million to extend COVID-19 support for residential aged care facilities. Starting from January 1, 2024, a new Aged Care Outbreak Management Supplement will be introduced, lasting for a year, replacing the existing COVID-19 grants. This supplement is designed to aid all residential aged care providers in managing outbreaks. Additionally, a surge workforce will continue to provide assistance to aged care homes affected by outbreaks.
Residential aged care, Multi-Purpose Service (MPS), and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care (NATSIFAC) providers are set to receive approximately $940 per resident in 2024 under the current arrangements. These measures are indicative of the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the aged care sector in dealing with COVID-19.
“Vaccinations, antiviral treatments, well-trained and dedicated aged care workers, and greater awareness have all contributed to protecting our older community.”
Aged care minister, Anika Wells
The simplified payment process will eliminate the need for providers to apply for COVID-19 grants and contribute to planning and outbreak management costs. Further information: https://www.health.gov.au/topics/aged-care/managing-covid-19
