As reported by the AFR, the government is expected to release long-awaited reforms within a week, requiring individuals with greater financial means to contribute more to their aged care.
A group of 10 aged care and associated advocacy groups gathered in Canberra on Friday to express their frustration at the slow pace of the reform process and concerns about the ability to implement it before the next election.
These reforms initially planned for the May budget, have been delayed as the government, led by Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler, negotiates with the Coalition.
The proposals include raising the lifetime contributions cap for residential care from $76,096 to $190,000 while abolishing the cap for home care – a recommendation of the Aged Care Taskforce chaired by aged care minister Anika Wells.
The care fees are means-tested, but the current reforms are likely controversial and require parliamentary review. The aged care sector, already under pressure, is concerned about the potential impact of these reforms, especially as they coincide with the upcoming introduction of a new Aged Care Act.
The Coalition has opposed the proposed jail terms and fines of up to $313,000 for directors for breaches of the tougher new standards. Aged care providers are concerned the proposed penalties would make it even harder to attract people to the sector.
