Budget Takes the First Step to Deliver Reforms We So Badly Need

In October the new government delivered its first Federal budget and we were very interested to see what they would deliver for the Aged Care Sector. The 2022–23 October Budget states the government’s commitment to improve safety, dignity, quality, and humanity in the aged care sector. Federal Minister Mark Butler states “Older Australians deserve respect and dignity in aged care and this Budget takes the first steps to deliver the reforms that they so badly need.”

The Government’s aged care reforms in this Budget respond directly to twentythree recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and claims that a $3.9 billion will help implement reforms that meet the needs of aged care recipients.

There is a lot to unpack from the budget and we are still working through how it will impact us on a grass roots level. Overall, we welcome the budget investments, however there is still much to do.

Highlights include (but not limited to):
• investing $2.5 billion in new legislated requirements for residential aged care homes to have a Registered Nurse onsite 24 hours a day, seven days a week and more care minutes.

• $3.6m to establish a new national registration scheme for personal care workers

• $312.6m towards improved information and communication technology Aged Care platforms, enabling better connectivity and up to date aged care service information though My Aged Care.

• $38.7 million will establish an Inspector-General of Aged Care to target systemic issues, provide independent oversight of the aged care system and make recommendations directly to Government.

• Disability Support for Older Australians (DSOA) Program – $53.5 million until December 2023.

• For people who wish to be independent and remain living in their own home, reforms to in-home aged care will start from 1 July 2024.

Existing in-home aged care programs will continue until this time. This includes a twelve-month extension to the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. The Budget includes $23.1 million for research and consultation to deliver an equitable program. Capping administration and management prices for Home Care Packages program will deliver higher value for money.

• Improving services and access to culturally safe care for older First Nations peoples, and older people from diverse communities, regional areas and older people living with dementia.

Now it’s time to focus on the importance of Families, Fun and the Festive Season. This year, at McLean Care we are so excited for the Christmas season. Over the past few years, the global pandemic kept us away from our loved ones, families, and friends. This year, more than ever we are reminded of what is important.

Celebrating with gratitude, spending time with the people we love, and making lasting memories during these special family moments.

For the first time since 2019, we hope that our Christmas celebrations can return to some normal activities. I know that our McLean Care teams are embracing the opportunity to celebrate with a bit of friendly rivalry among the McLean Care divisions as they compete for the Best Decorated Christmas Tree in 2022!

Staff and residents alike will be creating Christmas decorations and dressing the Tree. The Christmas spirit is certainly alive and well at our community centres and for those we care for in their own homes, so make sure you contact us for our Christmas visiting details.

In all McLean Care locations, we have wonderful outdoor Christmas concerts planned, Christmas carols to sing along to, festive food treats, decorations everywhere, visits from Santa, and a delicious Christmas meal. Whilst COVID is still part of our lives and we need to remain vigilant we welcome families and friends to visit their loved one this year to lift the spirits of everyone!

This year, more than ever, it’s a time to celebrate and spend time with those we love. We also acknowledge that for some, they don’t have family nearby or who can visit. But we want you to know, that we are here for you as your McLean Care Family. Our team will support you with the only way they know how, with their cheerful attitude and unwavering commitment to your care and wellbeing.

I would like to take this time to personally acknowledge our wonderful clients and your families. The trust you place in us matters more that you will know and I wish you and those your love a warm and heartfelt Festive Season.

Sue Thomson
Chief Executive Officer