Council of Elders achievements in 2022
The Council of Elders was established to provide a direct voice to Government from older Australians. The Council has a wide remit to consult with older Australians and advise the Minister for Aged Care and the Department of Health and Aged Care on aged care reform and ageing well.
In December 2021, the Council was announced and the first meeting held in January 2022. The Council meets monthly and shares a meeting communiqué that you can read on their website.
Early in 2022, members identified key areas of the aged care reforms they wanted to focus on. The Council established portfolio working groups to allow deeper consideration of these reform priorities:
- In-home aged care
- The new Aged Care Act
- Provider transparency
- Star ratings
- Aged care workforce.
Over the past 12 months the Council also considered and provided advice to Government and the department across a range of matters including:
- In-home aged care
- Aged Care Quality Standards
- Workforce
- How older Australians and providers should be consulted on the reforms.
In 2022 the Council has directly advised the Hon. Anika Wells, Minister for Aged Care, meeting with her twice to provide her with specific input on shaping and implementing the aged care reforms.
The Council have much more work planned for 2023, including getting out and about at a range of events across the country to speak directly with older people about what matters to them when it comes to ageing well and accessing aged care services.
For more information visit the webpage or email Council of Elders councilofelders@Health.gov.au
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 Australians 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.