A plan to implement new technology in the aged care sector was launched this week by Minister Ken Wyatt, alongside numerous other government officials and aged care organisations.
The plan consists of what is known as The Technology Roadmap; a guide that tells the sector how to make technology more prominent in day to day operations, in the hope it can eliminate the many short, medium and long-term ICT-related problems and issues that the sector currently faces.
The Technology Roadmap was put together by the Aged Care Industry IT Company, in conjunction with a team from the Medical Device Research Institute at Flinders University.
While the plan consists of many proposed changes to the system, its primary focus is working with various government departments to improve technology capabilities across the sector, as well as improving connections across aged care systems.
Other changes include several pilots with the aim of demonstrating how to extend telehealth in aged care, as well as implementing a national digital literacy strategy for consumers.
The Technology Roadmap has also suggested developing a national workforce technology development strategy and trialling embedding technology expertise in assessment and care planning.
Most of the proposals are aiming to be implemented in the short term, with officials saying they hope to be ready and available within one to two years, with any necessary follow-up action for the following three to seven years.
AClitC chair Glenn Bunney said that The Technology Roadmap has been designed to work alongside many other current reforms taking place:
“We are hoping that as the Aged Care Roadmap progresses and goes through government policy that the technology will go along with it as well,” he said.
“It will hopefully get an individual provider asking questions of themselves about their preparedness and how to implement the technology in the roadmap.”
LASA chief Sean Rooney said that The Technology Roadmap provides helpful insight into the various ways technology can benefit aged care services.
He also noted that the government can help support the proposed plans with system protocols and by ensuring different departments work together to help reach the planned goals.
“There are also examples previously where the government has supported industry to transition to new technologies,” he said.
“A useful starting point would be with regards to the My Health Record.”
ACSA chief Pat Sparrow said much of the necessary reform needed in the home care sector was underpinned by technology, so The Technology Roadmap is an excellent way of how to address the issues:
“That includes assistive technology for people but also the technology that providers need to give true life to consumer choice,” she said.
“The key thing is that there’s a focus on technology and that it is not overlooked… that’s what we want from all partners and particularly from government.”
’Twas the Friday before Christmas & all through the land,
Home Caring united, a festive day so grand.
With our staff and clients together as one,
We celebrated Christmas, full of love and fun.
From Craigieburn’s cheer to South Perth’s delight,
Rockhampton’s joy sparkled so bright.
Campbelltown gathered, Hurstville did too,
Smithfield and Altona also spread Christmas hues.
With laughter and love felt far and wide,
Our epic Christmas parties warmed hearts inside.
A shoutout to every team who made it so sweet—
This festive season you’ve made it complete! 🎄🩵
#HomeCaringChristmas #TogetherAsOne #FestiveJoy #MeaningfulConnections #CelebratingCare #haveahollyjollychristmas
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The Australian Government has announced significant changes to the aged care system introducing the Support at Home program set to commence on 1 July 2025. This initiative aims to enhance support for older Australians enabling them to remain in their homes longer and receive more personalised care.
Key Features of the Support at Home Program:
• Reduced Wait Times: The program will shorten the waiting period for in-home aged care services ensuring timely assistance for those in need.
• Tailored Support Levels: Support at Home introduces eight levels of ongoing care replacing the previous four, to better match individual needs.
• No Caps on Cleaning and Gardening: Unlike previous programs there will be no annual caps on cleaning and gardening services allowing for more comprehensive support.
• Care Management Cap: A 10% cap on care management costs will remain in place to maintain affordability.
• Assistive Technology Access: The program will expedite access to assistive devices like walkers and wheelchairs enhancing mobility and independence.
• Increased Support Funding: The maximum support level will rise from $61,000 to $78,000, providing more resources for those with complex needs.
• Restorative and Allied Health Services: There will be a temporary funding boost for restorative and allied health services, aiding recovery and well-being.
• Palliative Care Support: The program includes provisions for palliative care allowing older Australians to spend their final weeks at home surrounded by loved ones.
Staged Implementation of Price Caps:
Price caps on services will be phased in starting from 1 July 2026. For the first year providers will continue to set their own prices similar to the current Home Care Packages program. In early 2025, consultations will be held with older people, advocates, families, carers and the sector to ensure fair pricing and robust consumer protections during this transition.
No Worse Off Principle:
To protect existing Home Care Package recipients, the government has introduced the “No Worse Off” principle:
• Grandfathering: Individuals approved for a Home Care Package as of 12 September 2024 will transition to the new system without financial disadvantage.
• Fee Structure: If you were a full-rate pensioner paying no fees under your Home Care Package as of 12 September 2024, you will continue to pay no fees under Support at Home. If you were required to pay fees, you will pay the same or less under the new program.
At Home Caring we are dedicated to supporting our older community members through these changes. We are committed to ensuring the financial safety and well-being of our clients providing personalised care that aligns with the new Support at Home program. Our team is here to assist you in navigating these updates, ensuring you receive the care and support you deserve. 🩵
For more detailed information please refer to the Department of Health and Aged Care’s consumer fact sheet: www.health.gov.au/resources/ publications/support-at-home-program-fact-sheet-changes-to-support-at-home-pricing-arrangements-for-older-people-families-and-carers?language=en
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Happy Friday HC fam! Sending love from our wonderful Home Caring Craigieburn team! It’s been an incredibly productive week filled with exciting events across Australia and we couldn’t be more thrilled about what’s to come. As the new year approaches we’re counting down the days to continue growing innovating and supporting our cherished clients with the care they deserve 🩵 ... See MoreSee Less
What an incredible way to wrap up the year! Yesterday Home Caring proudly co-hosted the Merry & Mingle event alongside our NSW RM Zoë and Hannah from the Connector Co team and it was nothing short of inspiring. Together we raised an incredible $1,300 for Lou’s Place, supporting women in need this festive season. This means around 20 women will receive vital support over Christmas—what a gift to be part of something so meaningful! The energy in the room was contagious and the heartfelt insights shared by Chris Mahoney from CM Wellness and Amy Dillon from Mynd & Me left us feeling empowered and inspired. Chris’s breathwork session reminded us all of the importance of mindfulness especially during this busy holiday period.
It was also truly special to see so many familiar faces from across our Home Caring network with teams from Baulkham Hills, Sutherland Shire and Campbelltown coming together to show their support. The sense of community, compassion and connection in the room was a testament to the incredible people we work alongside every day. A huge thank you to everyone who attended, supported and donated - your generosity will leave a lasting impact 🩵
#SupportingCommunities #MindfulConnections #NDISWellness #WomenHelpingWomen #HolidayCareAndCompassion
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