Aged care information line takes one millionth call
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, has congratulated the staff of the Aged Care Information Line in recognition of the free service receiving its one millionth call.
The Aged Care Information Line (1800 500 853) was established in 1997 to provide information to aged care providers and the public about Australian Government-funded residential and community aged care services. This includes information on the services that are available, assistance with applying for services, and estimates of associated costs.
The information line also assists aged care providers who have questions on their obligations under the Aged Care Act 1997.
“I would like to extend my congratulations to the staff of the Aged Care Information Line on reaching this significant milestone,” Mr Butler said.
“With a client satisfaction rate of more than 99% over 14 years, the service has established itself as an important point of contact for older Australians and their friends and family to help them navigate the aged care system.
“It is especially helpful to older Australians who want to use aged care services for the first time. This can be a difficult stage for a first-time caller, so it’s reassuring to know that they will speak to a knowledgeable person who can help them with those important first steps into the aged care system,” he said.
In 2009-10 the Aged Care Information Line received more than 103,300 calls, up from 75,485 five years ago. The number of calls the service receives is expected to continue to increase as Australia’s population ages.
The Aged Care Information Line operates from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm (AEST) Monday to Friday (except national and ACT public holidays). In conjunction with the Translating and Interpreting Service and the National Relay Service, the information line also provides assistance for callers not fluent in English and people with speech or hearing impairments.
