Feedback sought on Home Care Discussion Paper – Reminder

In the 2015-16 Budget, the Australian Government announced significant changes to improve the way home care services are delivered to older people, building on the current consumer directed care approach. From February 2017, funding for a home care package will follow the consumer, allowing eligible consumers to choose their approved provider, as well as more flexibility to change their provider if they wish. Once the changes come into effect, providers will not have to apply for new home care places through the Aged Care Approvals Round, significantly reducing red tape.

A discussion paper on the proposed changes is now available on the Department’s consultation webpage at engage.dss.gov.au. The aged care sector and other interested parties are invited to provide feedback on the discussion paper, with written submissions due by 5:00pm on Tuesday 27 October 2015. Interested parties are also invited to join an upcoming live webinar on Monday 19 October 2015. The webinar will outline the proposed arrangements and provide an opportunity to ask questions about the changes. Details of the webinar are available on the Department’s website at www.dss.gov.au/2015webinars