Aged care: education program to strengthen leadership, governance

The federal government has launched an education program to help aged-care providers strengthen organisational governance and leadership.

Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services Richard Colbeck said strong leadership within the sector is critical for driving the cultural change required for high-quality levels of care.

“This education program is an investment in our future aged-care system and will enhance leadership and governance skills across the sector.

“All aged-care providers need to review their current practices to ensure they are ready to embrace the future.”

The program will be led by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and will specifically target all leaders and members of governing bodies of approved aged care, aiming for approximately 3700 participants. Enrolment in the program is free and will continue to June 2023.

The initiative is part of the government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and is aimed at improving transparency and accountability.

Minister Colbeck said it was an opportunity for leaders and governing bodies to play an active part in the transformation of culture across the sector.

Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson will invite all aged-care leaders and governing bodies to register their interest and participate in the program.

The government is investing $17.7 billion in aged-care reform, in response to the Royal Commission. A key pillar of the reform package is to strengthen governance and leadership of aged-care boards that can support better quality and safety of care for senior Australians.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Jacob Lund