CHA SAYS SECTOR READY TO GET DOWN TO WORK ON ROYAL COMMISSION AGED CARE LEGISLATION

Catholic Health Australia welcomes the passage of crucial legislation – the first from the Albanese Government – that paves the way for a new and more transparent funding regime for aged care providers.
The passage of the Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment (Royal Commission Response) Bill 2022 through the Parliament today signals a positive start for the Albanese Government in its pledge to reform the aged care sector.
Catholic not-for-profit aged care providers welcome the creation of a new independent pricing authority, greater protections for aged care residents and new powers for the regulator.
CHA Director of Aged Care Jason Kara said: “The passage of this Bill is a positive start and sets the sector on a path of much-needed reform. It is encouraging that the first Bill to pass in this new Parliament is a response to the Royal Commission which handed down its final report almost 18 months ago.
“The real work of implementation begins today. Our members stand by ready to work with the Government on the detail of the new funding model that will deliver more funds and delivers higher quality care to residents. We welcome the publication of provider financial information and the creation of the expanded Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority. We will continue to lobby to ensure that the Authority’s annual advice on prices will be publicly available to support continued improvements in client outcomes.”
“CHA will also be a strong voice in the recently announced capability review of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. We will be supportive of moves to ensure that the Government and aged care sector work in partnership to support older Australians in need of care.”
“CHA is confident that this legislation and continued reform will usher in a new era of cooperation between government, regulators and providers to ensure standards of care rise.”