CUTS CONTINUE IN AGED CARE, NO WORKFORCE STRATEGY

Tony Abbott’s second budget demonstrates he has no workforce strategy for the aged care sector.

“Once again aged care workers have been brushed aside by unfair cuts in aged care, with $40.2 million taken from the Aged Care Workforce Fund,” Senator Polley said.

The Abbott Government had previously promised to develop an aged care workforce strategy to ensure growth in Australia’s aged care workforce.

“Last night the Abbott Government failed to recognise that we need an adequately skilled and well qualified aged care workforce if we are to deliver the best quality aged care services that the Australian people deserve,” Senator Polley said.

Tasmania alone needs a further 5000 aged-care workers by 2020 if it is to accommodate its ageing population.

“In Tasmania, a quarter of the population will be over 65 by 2030. The demand for residential care will only increase in the future. And there are already 1,000 people on waiting lists in Tasmania waiting for home based care,” Senator Polley said.

“The Government should be focused on growing the aged care workforce now. This $40.2 million cut by the Abbott Government is opposed to that,” Senator Polley said.
SENATOR HELEN POLLEY SHADOW PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR AGED CARE SENATOR FOR TASMANIA