Past, present and future of aged care

Benetas will today bring together key industry stakeholders to discuss the future of aged care, at its inaugural Industry Breakfast in Melbourne.

The 2014 Benetas Industry Breakfast, part of Benetas’ broader community engagement program, will feature a range of special guest speakers, including Victorian Minister for Ageing, David Davis MLC and a keynote address by Australian television and radio personality, Denise Drysdale.

Benetas chief executive, Sandra Hills, says the event will provide guests with the unique opportunity to come together to reflect on the past 12 months, and discuss the anticipated challenges to come in aged care.

“These reforms and how we meet the needs of older Australians into the future will have a significant impact on the community for decades to come, so it is vital that we fully understand and consider the challenges of supporting an ageing population,” Ms Hills says.

She adds that Benetas has approached the introduction of the reforms as an opportunity to align its strategic focus with the broad principles outlined by government, particularly the increasing focus on consumer choice.

“Benetas remains committed to finding new and innovative ways to bring the government’s reform agenda to fruition and remain a strong advocate for older Australians well into the future,” she says.

The event is expected to be attended by government, industry and community stakeholders, with Benetas Chairman, John McKenzie, and Ms Hills to speak at the event and launch Benetas’ 2013-2014 Annual Report, Creating our Future.

“Our message to government, industry and the broader community is that Benetas is a partner in addressing the issues of ageing and aged and community care,” she says.

“We will continue to engage and support our community through the provision of services, advocacy and research and are committed to growing and developing as an organisation to meet the needs of our clients and all older Victorians.”