Existing and prospective aged care providers in Fairfax are being encouraged to apply for a share in a record offering of more than 14,000 new aged care places, with a special focus on rural, regional and remote locations.
With the 2018-19 Aged Care Approvals Round (ACAR) opening on 2 July, Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt and Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien said this year’s allocation was a result of the Turnbull Government’s $5 billion aged care Budget boost.
“This is about providing more local care and supporting residents and communities,” Minister Wyatt said. “There has never been a better time for existing and potential regional providers to apply to develop or expand aged care operations.
“The Turnbull Government is committed to improving aged care access in regional, rural and remote locations, with these areas now identified as high-need.”
Mr O’Brien said the Sunshine Coast stood to benefit.
“We know how important it is to help local people continue to live in the communities they know and love,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The fact that suitable proposals targeting aged care in regional areas will be prioritised this year presents a great opportunity.”
A total of 13,500 new residential care places and 775 short-term restorative care places are on offer across the nation, along with $60 million in capital grants for aged care construction and expansion.
“There will be a further $40 million available in 2019 for rural, regional and remote aged care construction,” Minister Wyatt said.
“The Budget also includes a record $105.7 million to expand the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care program in remote communities.”
The 2018-19 ACAR application period is open for six weeks, from 2 July until 10 August.
Application forms and guidelines are now available on the Department of Health website.