Funding to help older people stay in their communities

Residential aged care services in regional, rural and remote locations are set to receive $200 million in infrastructure grants.

The federal government’s funding package, in addition to $135 million recently awarded under Round 1, is aiming to improve access to quality aged care in small rural towns and remote communities, including for older First Nations people.

Funding under the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program supports the basic rights of all older people in Australia to have access to safe and high-quality aged care services regardless of where they live, meaning that they should not be forced to move away from their communities when entering aged care. The funding will allow successful applicants to build new facilities as well as upgrade existing infrastructure.

“As Minister for Aged Care I have visited 50 facilities and seen firsthand the difference that modern and comfortable environments can make to quality of life,” said Anika Wells, Minister for Aged Care.

“$200 million in funding will provide the support some of our regional and rural providers need to bring their facilities into the modern era and create beautiful, caring environments.

“Beyond the regions and the bush, this is also an exciting opportunity for city-based providers with the necessary skills and experience to deliver projects that provide care to First Nations people.”

For this round, eligibility has been expanded to include all regional areas (MM 2–7) with grants also available to help providers build and improve services for First Nations communities in any location, including major cities.

Grant information, including eligibility requirements, can be found on GrantConnect (GO6989). Applications close on Thursday, 29 August 2024 at 2 pm (AEST).

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