The Retirement Living Council, which represents the owners and operators of retirement living communities, has called the Aged Care Royal Commission’s interim report an important step forward for older Australians.
While not part of the aged care system, more than 180,000 older Australians call a retirement community home and many receive funded care services, provided through a service agreement with their village or sourced independently through a home care package.
Ben Myers, Executive Director of the Retirement Living Council (a division of the Property Council of Australia), said the interim report was a step toward reform that would benefit all Australians.
“The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is a crucial piece of work that will drive positive change for the health and well-being of older Australians,” Mr Myers said.
“The Commission’s interim report released today, while not delivering firm recommendations, provides an insight into their priorities and actions required to ensure every person who needs quality care can access it quickly.
“We hope it will provide an impetus for clear action, even ahead of the Commission’s final report in November next year, that will deliver positive outcomes for anyone needing to access the care system.
“The retirement living sector has been focused on improving quality and standards for residents in villages across the country.
“Our 8-point industry plan, launched more than two years ago, has delivered a new standards framework through an industry code of conduct and a recently refreshed and independently managed accreditation scheme.
“We are also progressing new work that will ensure retirement village managers and on-site staff are equipped with the skills needed to respond to residents’ needs effectively.”
