‘Targeted funding critical to avoid crisis’ in aged care, disability sectors
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The Health Services Union (HSU) is calling for urgent government support to tackle escalating workforce shortages in the aged care and disability sectors, following the release of the independent Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System.
The review advises that the federal government unite unions, employers and relevant agencies to overcome barriers to apprenticeship pathways for these critical care sectors. HSU National Secretary Lloyd Williams says these recommendations come at a pivotal time.
“The independent review of apprenticeships shows despite massive workforce shortages, a lack of funding is preventing disability and aged care apprenticeships from taking off,” he said.
Williams applauded the federal government’s initiative to commission the review and pointed to a recent announcement introducing bonuses for residential construction apprentices, adding: “The Prime Minister’s announcement today about bonuses for residential construction apprentices shows the government is serious about addressing skills shortages. That’s exactly why we need similar targeted incentives for aged care and disability support.”
According to Williams, without parallel funding and incentives for the care sectors, Australia could face dire consequences: “Without targeted funding, Australia risks inflaming the workforce crisis in aged care and disability which would have dire consequences in those critical sectors. With an ageing population and growing NDIS, Australians’ access to quality care and support is at risk.”
The HSU is seeking federal backing for 10,000 new apprentices in aged care and disability support. Williams emphasised the union’s willingness to collaborate with government stakeholders on this issue:
“The HSU stands ready to work with the government to address Australia’s urgent skills needs in aged care and disability.”
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
