Aged Care Transition Taskforce assembled to guide historic reform
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The Albanese government has established a new Aged Care Transition Taskforce to implement what it calls the most significant improvement to aged care in three decades, backed by a $5.6 billion investment.
The taskforce, to be led by Council of Elders Chair Anne Burgess AM, will guide the sector through sweeping changes under the new Aged Care Act, set to take effect from 1 July 2025, pending parliamentary approval.
In a practical measure to ease the transition, aged care providers will be eligible for grants of up to $10,000 to cover necessary IT system updates. Details of this grant program are expected to be announced in coming weeks.
Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells acknowledged the challenges the sector may face but emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting providers through the process.
“I understand the sector will face challenges transitioning to a new aged care system but we are intent on helping the industry meet these challenges,” she said.
The taskforce brings together a broad coalition of experts, including consumer advocates, aged care providers, ICT specialists and healthcare professionals. Representatives from the Department of Health and Aged Care and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will also participate.
“The Transition Taskforce will provide expert advice to government on the progress of implementation alongside oversight and stewardship to the sector,” Minister Wells said.
The initiative represents a key component of the Albanese Government’s broader aged care reform agenda, which aims to address long-standing issues in the sector. Wells expressed confidence in the industry’s ability to adapt, stating, “I know the sector can meet this challenge with the Transition Taskforce troubleshooting concerns raised by providers.”
The taskforce will play a crucial role in shaping future aged care policy, with the government committed to considering its recommendations to address both challenges and opportunities in the coming decades.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
