A new report from the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has revealed a significant rise in demand for support from older Australians dealing with issues in aged care. The Presenting Issues report, OPAN’s fourth annual release, shows a 20% increase in advocacy and support cases, with over 44,000 instances recorded in the 2023-2024 period.
The report highlights ongoing challenges in the aged care sector, with the top concerns being poor communication and lack of information from providers. This marks the second consecutive year these issues have topped the list, underscoring persistent gaps in transparency and engagement by aged care services. Complaints about fees also featured prominently among the issues reported by older Australians seeking help.
Craig Gear OAM, OPAN’s CEO, expressed disappointment over the continued lack of clear communication and support for older Australians.
“It is disappointing to see that, yet again, people are struggling to have clear communication and information from their aged care providers,” said Mr Gear. He pointed to what he described as “fundamental ageist and ableist beliefs” that still pervades the sector, leaving older individuals without adequate information to make informed decisions about their care.
“When a person isn’t given sufficient or consistent information by their frontline staff or service providers, they cannot exercise their right to influence decisions about their care and support.”
Craig Gear OAM, CEO, Olders Persons Advocacy Network
OPAN’s analysis suggests that, despite reforms in the sector, progress remains slow, with older Australians urging faster action. Gear highlighted the potential of the new Aged Care Act, due for implementation on July 1, 2025, to address many of the concerns raised in the report. However, he voiced concern about the delay, emphasising the immediate need for improved standards.
The Presenting Issues report includes 47 recommendations to address these challenges, with 23 carried over from last year’s report. OPAN’s chief recommendation is for all aged care workers to uphold a Statement of Rights, ensuring that the needs and preferences of older Australians are respected.
Additionally, Gear stressed the importance of flexibility within the Support at Home program, calling for exceptions that allow individuals to prioritise both personal care and essential home services.
