Ian Yates appointed as Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care

Highly regarded aged care executive and former Chief Executive of the Council of the Ageing (COTA) Ian Yates AM has been appointed as the Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care.

Yates will commence the role in January 2023, and will undertake a range of key functions with the support of the Interim Office, which are expected to include:

• engaging with stakeholders to assist with developing a review program for systemic investigations
• identifying priorities for the Inspector-General
• delivering education and raising awareness of the roles and functions of the interim and statutory Offices
• considering opportunities to report to Parliament, including on the implementation of Royal Commission recommendations.
   

Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said, "This role demonstrates our commitment to strengthening and driving positive change in the aged care system by providing the means for independent oversight, increased transparency and accountability in the sector.

“The Interim Inspector-General and, when appointed, the Inspector-General, will provide independent oversight across the aged care system, and will play a critical role in enhancing transparency and building greater confidence in the operation of the aged care system.”

Yates has held positions including Chair of the Council of Elders and Member of the National Aged Care Advisory Council and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council.

He has also represented older Australians on key federal government and sector advisory bodies, including nine years as a member of the Aged Care Financing Authority.

Yates was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2005 and is an Honorary Doctor and Emeritus Deputy Chancellor of Flinders University.

“The establishment of the Interim Inspector-General, and later, Inspector-General of Aged Care, presents an opportunity to address long-standing issues with the aged care system,” Yates said. 

“I am confident we can help build community confidence in an accountable and transparent aged care system that meets the diverse needs of older Australians, their families and carers.”

The Inspector-General is expected to be appointed in the second half of 2023, pending the passage of legislation. The Department of Health and Aged Care is consulting on the draft Inspector-General of Aged Care Bill. Comments and submissions on the draft legislation open today and are due by 27 January 2023.

Image credit: iStockphoto.com/hsyncoban