Government confirms deal increasing costs for elderly Australians in aged care

·

A new agreement has been reached between the Federal Government and the Coalition to reform Australia’s aged care system, which will lead to increased costs for some elderly citizens.

Under the new deal, individuals entering residential aged care will face higher means-tested contributions, and the maximum allowable price for a room in a facility will be raised. Additionally, residential aged care providers will now have the ability to retain a small portion of accommodation deposits from residents.

These reforms are expected to save the Federal Government $12.6 billion over the next 11 years. A key component of the agreement is the “no worse off principle,” ensuring that those already in aged care will not experience an increase in their financial contribution.

For new entrants, the fee structures will be adjusted to reflect higher means, though the government asserts that 70 percent of individuals on a full pension and 25 percent of those on a partial pension will not see an increase in their contributions.

In addition to these changes, the government will invest $4.3 billion into a new Support at Home program, set to begin in July 2025. This initiative aims to support nearly 1.5 million Australians and will involve more comprehensive means of testing based on individual circumstances.

The deal was finalised following urgent party room meetings between the government and Coalition on Thursday morning, concluding months of behind-the-scenes negotiations.

Source: ABC News.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greek Orthodox Community of SA celebrates 204th year of Greek Independence

The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia commemorated Greek Independence Day with joyous festivities on Sunday, 30 March.

From alleyway to legacy: Coburg’s Kastoria Lane project gains momentum

Merri-bek City Council has greenlit public consultation for the naming of Kastoria Lane, a project set to transform a neglected alleyway.

Burwood Council celebrates Greek National Day with local community

On Wednesday, March 26, Burwood Council hosted its annual Greek National Day celebrations, marking the 1821 start of Greece's Revolution.

Speak Greek café movement hopes to save the Greek language, one conversation at a time

The "Speak Greek in March" initiative aims to foster a vibrant community for Greek language learners and enthusiasts.

Liquidator struggles to find evidence for David Catsoulis’ gold mining project in PNG

David Catsoulis, a twice-bankrupt mining promoter, has been promoting a multi-billion-dollar gold mine project in Papua New Guinea for 7yrs.

You May Also Like

‘Whatever it takes’: SA farmer Anastasia Bougesis assisting communities impacted by natural disasters

Anastasia Bougesis is a trained nurse and paramedic who has led relief operations in response to Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria.

Fronditha Care President says good governance ‘essential’ to financial recovery

Jill Taylor (Nikitakis), Fronditha Care President and Board Chair, addressed over 50 members who attended an information session on Tuesday.

Queen’s Birthday Honours 2022: Here are all the Greek Australians who made the list

At least 20 prominent Greek Australians have been recognised today in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for 2022.