Aged Care Complaints Commissioner reappointed
Rae Lamb, Australia’s first Aged Care Complaints Commissioner, will continue her role for another three years.
Aged Care Complaints Commissioner Rae Lamb says complaints are something to be valued.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Sussan Ley MP, and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ken Wyatt AM, MP announced her reappointment for a second term to January 2020 this week.
The Aged Care Complaints Commissioner handles and investigates any complaints from people about Government funded aged care and home care services, and has operated independently since the start of this year.
Minister Ley says that the service of the Aged Care Complaints Commissioner is an important part of the Government’s commitment to a sustainable, flexible aged care system.
“The health, safety and well-being of older people is of paramount importance and the reappointment of Ms Lamb ensures
not only the necessary safeguards to protect consumers, but also to focus on continuous quality improvement,” she says.
“It is very important that we have a reliable, independent mechanism to address concerns when they arise.
“Consumers, family, carers and loved ones have shown confidence in the Commissioner, speaking up about their concerns, and the Commissioner and her team have an excellent record in responding to concerns and resolving issues,” Minister Ley says.
According to Assistant Minister Wyatt, the Commissioner’s reappointment will ensure quality and stability for the sector, and enable robust decision making in regard to complaints.
“The increase in the public’s engagement with the Commissioner will ultimately lead to positive outcomes for all consumers, as well as giving providers the opportunity to improve the delivery of their service,” Assistant Minister Wyatt says.
“The Commissioner is making a real difference to improving quality and confidence in aged care services.”
The Aged Care Complaints Commissioner has offices in seven cities across Australia, and can be contacted through the website or the national 1800 550 552 number. The service is free and Australia wide.
