Policy Blue Print Set for Age Services Industry

More than 60 senior provider members delivering the full spectrum of age services in both private and not for profit facilities have banded together to form a policy blue print for the age services industry.
“Ageing is a 13 billion industry, second only in volume to the state hospital system. In terms of responsible financial management, ongoing service stability and most importantly protection of Australia’s most vulnerable people it is essential that as an industry we lead the policy agenda.” said Patrick Reid CEO of Leading Age Services Australia (LASA).
The policy blue print covers:

• Access to Care


• Residential Accommodation Pricing


• Workforce


• Quality Provision


• Consumer Directed Care


• Diversity and Additional Needs


• Retirement Living


• Technology and Innovation

Michelle de Ronchi, Chief Operating Officer from St Ives Group (WA) said “It was a great discussion and good to see that across the country we have been able to put forward a consolidated and clear vision and key policies to enable LASA to move forward with.”
Ingrid Williams Managing Director of Elm Aged Living (VIC) said: “It was an extremely powerful day, over 50 providers from all over Australia in a room together contributing to a very important policy document which will pave the way for the future of aged care. “Senior advisers from both Minister Fifield’s and Andrews’ offices were present. This demonstrates the importance of a strong, clear and united voice across age services. With the demands on workforce and funding yesterday’s event drew a line in the sand. From here on age services will be recognised as a critical human service.”
“To date governments have expected providers to provide greater services with less funding. This action by government places older Australians in jeopardy and will not be tolerated by LASA.
“As the peak body LASA is well placed to provide government and policy makers with essential data to ensure quality services continue. LASA’s approach is not ‘watchful waiting’, preferring a proactive approach.”