Advocates for older Australians argue that while this year’s Federal Budget introduces several positive initiatives, it falls short of addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the aged care sector.
Craig Gear, the Chief Executive Officer of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) understood the Federal Budget had a strong focus on easing cost of living pressures. He also acknowledged the $291 million dedicated to delivering on the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety but warned the government that Australia’s aged care sector faced multiple challenges, including workforce shortages and growing numbers of older adults waiting for in-home support.
“Unsurprisingly, this Budget had a strong focus on easing the cost-of-living pressures facing Australian families in the lead-up to a Federal election,” Gear said.
“Our aged care sector is facing many challenges right now, including significant workforce shortages and a growing number of older people waiting for support.
“OPAN would have liked to see increased access to hardship provisions for older people who have limited financial means, to make sure they don’t slip below the poverty line.
“Further, we continue to see an increase in people waiting for Home Care Packages, and that hasn’t been addressed in this Budget. We are increasingly concerned that this figure will continue to grow.”
While wait times for Home Care packages and the many challenges facing the aged care sector remain a major concern, there are several initiatives in the 2025 Budget aimed at improving the quality of life for older Australians.
From extending energy bill relief to reducing the cost of medicines and strengthening Medicare, this year’s Budget includes initiatives designed with older Australians in mind.
An additional $1.8 billion will extend energy bill rebates, which will benefit every household and around one million small businesses, meaning Australians will see another $150 knocked off their energy bill this year.
The 2025 Budget also places a strong emphasis on improving the pay for aged care workers, who provide critical care to older Australians.
An extra $2.6 billion will fund pay rises for aged care nurses, effective from March this year. For workers covered by non-compete clauses, wages will rise by up to $2,500.
The cost of medicines is a significant concern, especially for older Australians who rely on prescriptions for their health. This year’s Budget includes measures aimed at making medicines more affordable.
The maximum cost for a Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) script will drop from $31.60 to $25, while pensioners and concession cardholders will continue to pay just $7.70 per script, as the Government has frozen these costs.
In addition, $1.8 billion will be invested in adding more life-saving medicines to the PBS, making it easier to access the treatments you need at a lower cost.
The 2025 Budget will also deliver a record $8.5 billion to strengthen Medicare and includes plans for 4,800 fully bulk-billed practices across the country, making it easier to see a doctor without worrying about the cost.