On 31 October 2019, the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety published its scathing interim report, titled ‘Neglect’.
Now ten months into the inquiry, the interim report confirms that the system is failing to meet the needs of elderly people, and moreover, is ‘unkind and uncaring’.
The evidence provided to the Commission by recipients of aged care services, their families and their carers has been harrowing. Commissioners Richard Tracey AM RFD QC and Lynelle Briggs AO commented that the aged care industry was a “sad and shocking system that diminishes Australia as a nation” and urgent reform is required.
Urgent action required
While the final report from the Commission is not due until November 2020, the Commissioners have identified three key areas where urgent action must be taken:
1. Home care packages
2. Regulations around restraints
3. Young people with disabilities in residential aged care
The report has highlighted what many in the community already knew; the aged care industry is built around transactions, not relationships or caring. The Commission’s final report is expected to recommend complete overhaul of the system.
Proper advocacy for aged care recipients, their families and carers is essential and can be achieved with the right representation.
If you have concerns about the treatment or needs of a loved one receiving or entering aged care, it is essential that you seek appropriate advice as early as possible to ensure your voice is heard.
Anyone wishing to make a submission to the Royal Commission has until 30 April 2020 to do so.
To read the report in full, click here.
More information
For more information on submissions to the Royal Commission, or for advice in relation to elder law and aged care, please contact our Estate Group on (03) 8600 8885.
Author
This Estate Group update was authored by Hayley Hunter, Senior Associate.
Note: This update is a guide only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.