Better supporting older Australians ...
Improving access to, and the quality of care in, the aged care system will help take pressure off our hospitals, while ensuring the needs of Australia's ageing population are met.
Taking full responsibility for the aged care system
The Government will take full policy and funding responsibility for all aged care services, including the Home and Community Care program for all States other than Victoria. This will enable the development of a nationally consistent aged care system covering basic home care through to residential aged care.
Delivering immediate improvements to help older Australians
The 2010‑11 Budget invests $533 million over five years to deliver immediate improvements to help older Australians and their families better navigate the aged care system. Major investments include:
- $145 million over four years for more Zero Real Interest Loans to support the development of 2,500 additional aged care places in areas of need;
- $120 million over four years in capital funding for 286 sub‑acute beds or bed equivalents in multi‑purpose services; and
- $99 million over five years to provide enhanced access to primary health care.
