Baptist Care Australia welcomes today's announcement that the government intends to delay the start of the new Aged Care Act until 1 November 2025.
Baptist Care Australia congratulates the new Aged Care Minister Sam Rae and the Minister for Health and Ageing and NDIS Mark Butler for recognising that older people would ultimately benefit from a short extension to ensure a smoother transition period.
The decision to defer implementation is a necessary step that Baptist Care Australia and others in the sector have been advocating for some time.
"We are pleased the Government has listened to the sector's concerns," said Dr Robyn Sampson, CEO of Baptist Care Australia. "This delay will help us serve our community better by giving providers, older people and their families time to properly understand and prepare for these important changes."
Baptist Care Australia has always supported a rights-based approach to aged care that puts older people at the centre of their care.
"The new Support at Home program will benefit thousands of older Australians, but we are still waiting for the government to provide clarity on essential aspects of the program to be able to make this work," Dr Sampson said.
While the additional four months are welcome, providers will require the regulations and guidance as soon as possible to ensure successful implementation of these vital reforms.
Baptist Care Australia looks forward to working with the Government to ensure these vital reforms are implemented effectively for the benefit of all older Australians.
ENDS
About Baptist Care Australia
Baptist Care Australia is the peak advocacy body for Baptist social service agencies across Australia, representing organisations that provide aged care, disability services, family support, and community services to thousands of Australians.