Catholic Health Australia (CHA) has welcomed the federal government’s decision to release more Support at Home packages so that older Australians can receive care in their home.
“Catholic providers strongly support the announcement from Minister Butler and Minister Rae today, alongside the federal government’s broader aged care reforms, which will deliver better care for older Australians,” said Director of Aged and Community Care, Alex Lynch.
CHA, which represents 20% of home care, has advocated strongly for the federal government to fund enough Support at Home packages to meet demand. Today's announcement will help achieve this objective.
“Every older Australian who can age safely in their own home should be given that opportunity,” said Mr Lynch.
“Funding Support at Home to meet demand will help prevent people waiting for their care and ultimately save money because delaying care leads to higher needs.
“Catholic aged care providers are ready to provide care for more older Australians in their home.”
CHA supports the commencement of the Aged Care Act on November 1 and thanks both sides of the Parliament for supporting this once in a generation reform in a bipartisan manner.
“We applaud the Parliament for passing these generational reforms and for its constructive collaboration to ensure they are implemented smoothly. The Act is an exciting opportunity to improve the care available to older Australians,” said Mr Lynch.
About us:
Notes to editors: Catholic Health Australia (CHA) is Australia’s largest non-government, not-for-profit group of health, community, and aged care providers. Our members operate 80 hospitals in each Australian state and the ACT, providing around 30 per cent of private hospital care and 5 per cent of public hospital care, in addition to extensive community and residential aged care. There are 63 private hospitals operated by CHA members, including St Vincent's, Calvary, Mater, St John of God and Cabrini. CHA members also provide approximately 12 per cent of all aged care facilities across Australia, in addition to around 20 per cent of home care services. 25 per cent of our members’ service provision is regional, rural and remote.
Contact details:
Anil Lambert 0416 426 722