Following confirmation that the commencement date of the legislation will be changed Dementia Australia supports the concerns raised by COTA Australia and Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) and reinforces the need for the timely introduction of the new Aged Care Act to protect and enforce the rights of older people.
COTA Australia and OPAN expressed concern that any delay to the introduction of the Aged Care Act should be avoided and swift action is needed.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said older people deserve the robust, enforceable rights they were assured, without further delay.
“People living with dementia and carers want and deserve an Aged Care Act that genuinely protects their rights and ensures they receive quality care,” Ms McCabe said.
“A new rights-based Aged Care Act is fundamental to achieving the reforms recommended by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety three years ago and the Act is a vital framework for this change.
“While it is important to get the details right and incorporate feedback, older people must have a clear timeframe by which these new rights are enshrined in legislation.”
The new Aged Care Act was due to come into effect from 1 July 2024. This week the Federal Government announced they are considering refining the draft legislation before it is introduced to Parliament.
“If there is a delay in the rollout of the legislation, there needs to be robust and transparent consultation that underpins the parliamentary process and due consideration of how the Act will strengthen the delivery of quality dementia care,” Ms McCabe said.
“People impacted by dementia deserve to feel confident that the new Act will empower them and improve their experience of care and services.
“We welcome the ongoing progress made by the Albanese Government in addressing key recommendations of the Royal Commission and look forward to continuing to work with them to improve the health, care, lifestyle outcomes and experiences for people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, and their families and carers.”
Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.6 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
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Media contacts: Gabrielle Prabhu, Media & Communications Manager, 0447 253 583 or Gabrielle.Prabhu@dementia.org.au
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors:
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If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.