Senate Report Delivers Clear Mandate for Aged Care Action

The Senate Community Affairs References Committee has tabled its report on aged care service delivery, and the message is clear: over 200,000 older Australians cannot afford to wait any longer for home care support. 

We’re encouraged to see the Committee’s 11 recommendations align closely with the concerns we raised in our submission – particularly around the time-critical nature of home care needs. 

Key recommendations from the report

• Release all 83,000 promised packages before June 2026 
• Provide additional packages urgently for those waiting 
• Work towards ending care rationing 
• Publish real-time waiting period information 
• Urgently review the Single Assessment System 

Why this matters

When the average person receives home care for only 2 years, every month of delay represents a significant portion of their remaining time for independence. Current 12-month waiting times mean people lose nearly 50% of their potential home care journey. 

This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about choice and control. Extended waiting periods undermine the fundamental principles enshrined in the new Aged Care Act, preventing older Australians from making meaningful decisions about their care and their lives. 

Our commitment

Dovida remains dedicated to working with government and sector partners to ensure these recommendations translate into real support for older Australians and their families. 

Because every day matters when someone has limited time to maintain their independence at home.

Read the full Dovida submission at  https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=5c2f633d-fa98-4819-9b9b-349ea5cc9f8c&subId=777754