THE Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) has welcomed the passing of the Aged Care Bill in the Senate, paving the way for a new Act, as a watershed moment for older Australians.

A new, rights-based Aged Care Act was the number one recommendation of the Royal Commission into Aged Care, something that aged care providers fully supported.

Once passed in the Lower House, the new Act will deliver on dozens of other recommendations made by the Royal Commission, all aimed at creating a better system for the future.

“We congratulate our elected politicians for putting older Australians and the future of aged care above party politics, passing the Aged Care Bill in the Senate, with rare bipartisan support,” ACCPA chief executive officer Tom Symondson said.

“The path to the new Act follows significant consultation with consumers, providers, unions, workers, accountants, economists, and members of parliament.

“Negotiations have been robust, but in good faith, with everyone putting the future of older Australians at the heart of reforms.”

Given the scope of change, providers are calling for a clearly articulated transition plan so that the sector can successfully implement these significant reforms.

“Reforms of this magnitude will take time to implement, so we’re continuing to call for realistic timeframes and support for the new requirements. We can’t have a situation where parts of the new Act can’t be achieved due to a lack of lead time and funding,” Mr Symondson said.

“We need certainty, we need support, and we need time. Everyone wants these reforms to succeed and we only get one chance to get this right.”

The new Act will replace the previous Aged Care Act, which was drafted back in 1997.

“The old Act was no longer fit for purpose for delivery of services to older people and nor was it fit for purpose to address Australia’s rapidly ageing population,” Mr Symondson said.

“Australia’s population is ageing rapidly, with the demand for aged care set to spiral in coming decades. At the same time more than half of aged care providers are losing money on every resident, while home care is variable at best.

“We hope reforms under the new Act will bring sustainable financial security, so we can grow a sector that’s vibrant and meets the needs of Australia’s ageing population.

“Australians want and deserve quality, safe and person-centred care. I am optimistic that this achievement will go some way to cultivating the trust and confidence of all Australians in what we hope will become a world-class aged care system.”