CCOA welcomes Roxon's support for aged care reform

"Ms Roxon's comments today, that without reform in the financing and governance of the health system there will never be investment in innovative models of aged care to meet the needs of a new generation of older Australians, are the strongest indication A collaboration to campaign for reform of aged care at the 2010 Federal Election to date of the Government's position," the group said.

"The Minister's acknowledgment that more needs to be done to support and assist older, frail members of our community, must be acted upon without delay.

"Ms Roxon's recognition of concerns about complaints in the aged care sector and significant staffing issues, also point to the urgent need for an overhaul of aged care.

"Access and choice for older Australians and sustainability in the aged care sector has to happen as soon as possible.

"Structural reform and new models of governance and services which are properly funded are essential if we are to meet the needs of growing numbers of older people.

"Currently we are funding systems rather than care. Increased spot checks, monitoring and funding which doesn't meet costs does little to help meet older peoples' real needs.

CCOA said the impending Productivity Commission inquiry into aged care would provide an appropriate forum to comprehensively address the extensive flaws in the system ­ including the complaints procedure, difficulties attracting and retaining qualified staff, inadequate access to capital and lack of funding.

"We are ready to work with the Government and again call for the terms of reference for the Productivity Commission inquiry to be announced, to enable planning for the long term future of aged care," the group said.

"The next Federal Budget must also provide some immediate relief for the sector struggling to survive and provide the best possible care and services for older Australians."

CCOA comprises 11 national organisations providing community and residential care.