News
4 October, 2024
$900m to improve aged care in rural and remote Australia
The Federal Government has unveiled a $900 million plan to improve aged care services in rural and remote Australia, a significant step toward ensuring older Australians receive the high-quality care need, no matter where they live.
Alliance Chief Executive, Susi Tegen, highlighted the challenges faced by older Australians in rural, regional, and remote areas, saying “Older people in these areas often struggle to access aged care, putting them at risk of reduced quality of life and premature death”.
“Many who prefer to stay within their communities are forced to move hundreds of miles away because the local aged care infrastructure is inadequate, separating them from family, friends, and familiar surroundings,” she added.
Of the $900 million, $600 million will go towards the Support at Home initiative, while an additional $300 million is earmarked for infrastructure improvements.
This funding aims to support aged care providers who operate in areas with limited or non-existent services, known as “thin markets.”
“Rural communities need this kind of commitment from the government,” Ms Tegen said.
“These resources will enable providers to maintain service continuity and improve the quality of care for older Australians living in rural, regional, and remote areas.
“Access to quality aged care should not depend on where a person lives.
“Rural Australians, who have made signifi cant contributions to our nation, deserve the same dignity and support as those in the city.”
Ms Tegen added that the thin market grants available under the Support at Home initiative will help sustain service providers and allow them to meet the diverse needs of an ageing population.
The $300 million for the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program will support workforce development, helping to attract health workers to rural areas.
The National Rural Health Alliance, representing 53 national organisations dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of the 7 million people living in rural and remote Australia.
