With an ageing population, and growing numbers of Australians requiring aged care each year, the government faces an on-going fiscal challenge. However, this year it is taking a steady-as-she-goes approach, at least while it carries out some significant policy and program reviews.
People who care
Having a highly qualified team of people to provide the best service for residents is our top priority at Twilight Aged Care, and across Australia the level of training of care staff is a key concern. The government will be focusing on staffing over the coming years, and in the budget it committed $33 million to growing the aged care and disability workforce. That includes $1.9 million to be spent on an industry-led taskforce to develop a strategy ensuring the sector is efficiently staffed with qualified carers in the future.
Care at home
As part of the $5.5 billion Commonwealth Home Support Programme, more seniors will be able to downsize their properties with fewer financial penalties when they sell their homes. Up to $300,000 of proceeds can be diverted tax-free into the superannuation on their pensions, with the limit at $600,000 for couples.
Better IT
If you’ve ever had to use the My Aged Care IT platform, you might know of its shortcomings. In the budget the government said it would spend $3.1 million of the Department of Health’s budget to support the platform.
Call us today on 02 9414 4400 to arrange a tour of our facilities for you or your loved one.