Calls for changes to long term financing of aged care
The National Aged Care Alliance has released a discussion paper A Summary of Options for Long Term Financing of Community and Residential Aged Care to promote debate on the future long term financing of community and residential aged care.
According to the Alliance, most Australians are now aware of the enormous impact the ageing of the population will have on our economy and society over the next 40 years.
The Alliance recognises the need to develop policies which are sustainable and affordable both to government and individuals, which is fundamental to ensuring that Australians will continue to have access to a world-class system of aged care.
The Hogan Report into Aged Care released in 2004, estimated that if no changes were made to the existing system, there would be a $6 billion financing shortfall by 2022/23.
Urgent change to the way community and residential care is financed is necessary to avoid this outcome.
The Alliance paper lists 13 options for debate. People with an interest in the future of the Australian aged care system can access the paper by logging on to www.naca.com.au
