OPAN, as the national peak body of individual advocacy, is committed to supporting and championing the rights of older people, and supports the implementation of the new Aged Care Act.
We believe the Act will, over time, drive rights-based care and has the potential to deliver high-quality aged care services to older people, along with greater choice and control over their care.
We are also keenly aware of the limitations of the new legislation – and acknowledge the ongoing concerns being raised by the community.
OPAN is calling for several key issues to be addressed before the implementation of the Act, including:
- roadblocks in the Single Assessment System
- long wait times for Home Care Packages
- co-contributions required for personal and respite care
- Unaffordable fees for pensioners and those with low means
- unintended consequences, such as reduced service levels due to price increases and the impact of the $15,000 cap on home modifications
- the lack of action on eliminating restrictive practices.
OPAN supports the expression of differing viewpoints. While people may disagree with the position OPAN has reached , we expect all commentary to remain respectful ensuring a safe environment for everyone to contribute.
Read the full statement here.
