Award wage increase for nurses
Nurses are essential for providing high-quality aged care services.
From 1 March this year, award wages increased for registered and enrolled nurses working in aged care. To help providers pass on the award wage increase, the government also increased the value of Home Care Packages.
If you receive care and services from a registered or enrolled nurse as part of your Home Care Package, your provider may ask you to agree to a price increase for the care you receive.
Because the government has increased the value of your Home Care Package to cover any price increases, you will continue to receive the same care and services for no additional cost.
If needed, your provider will contact you to discuss any reasonable changes to prices in your Home Care Agreement. Updating your agreement does not mean your care and services will change -- they will remain the same. However, if you don't agree to the price increases, it may be hard for your provider to keep giving you the same services.
If you have any concerns, speak to your provider first. You can also contact the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) or the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.
For more information, read the Aged Care Work Value Case -- Nurses Decision care recipient fact sheet.
Let's change aged care, together
Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.
The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.
To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.