Outbreak management support to continue for providers
The federal government has announced $318 million in funding to continue COVID-19 support for residential aged care homes.
From 1 January 2024, a new Aged Care Outbreak Management Supplement will provide support for another 12 months, replacing the current COVID-19 grants.
The supplement is aimed at helping residential aged care providers manage outbreaks. A surge workforce will continue to assist aged care homes impacted by outbreaks.
Residential aged care, Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care (NATSIFAC) providers will receive around $940 per resident in 2024 through current arrangements.
Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said, “The simplified payment process will remove the need for providers to apply for COVID-19 grants and contribute to planning and outbreak management costs.
“Transitioning to living with COVID-19 reflects the aged care sector’s increased capability and preparedness to manage and recover from future outbreaks.
“Vaccinations, antiviral treatments, well-trained and dedicated aged care workers, and greater awareness have all contributed to protecting our older community.”
Aged care needs time to implement vital reforms
Realistic timelines are needed for historic aged care reform, according to the Aged and Community...
New staffing quality indicators introduced
Three new staffing quality indicators are being introduced by the federal government to aged care...
Aged care homes fall short on mandatory minutes
Despite increased funding, many aged care facilities are still not reaching the mandatory minutes...
