THE Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has welcomed new protections announced by the Federal Government for the upcoming Support at Home program, but says delaying promised pricing caps could leave older Australians facing ongoing financial uncertainty.
The Government has unveiled a package of additional safeguards aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in home care services.
However, OPAN warns the reforms stop short of addressing one of the biggest concerns raised by older people – the affordability of essential care.
OPAN Director of Policy, Education and Systemic Advocacy, Samantha Edmonds, said stronger oversight measures were a positive step but argued that delaying price caps would continue to expose older Australians to rising costs.
“We welcome stronger oversight and transparency measures, but the decision to delay pricing caps means older people will continue to face uncertainty about what they will pay for essential services,” Ms Edmonds said.
“Older people are already enduring a cost-of-living crisis and having access to reasonable and affordable care is essential for their wellbeing.”
Among the measures welcomed by OPAN are new powers for the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to order refunds, increased public reporting requirements, and the introduction of quarterly national price summaries designed to improve transparency across the sector.
Additional funding for advocacy and education services was also praised, with Ms Edmonds saying it would help older people better understand their rights and challenge unfair charges.
“Additional funding for advocacy and education will also be critical to ensuring older people understand their rights and can challenge unfair fees,” she said.
Despite the improvements, OPAN believes further reforms are needed to provide meaningful protection for consumers, particularly through greater visibility of local pricing information.
