Advocates for the Elderly Call for Legal Consequences and Changes in Aged Care Personnel

Recent testimonies before the Senate Committee on Aged Care Reform have highlighted the shortcomings in Australia’s aged care system.

During the committee, Leanne Groombridge, CEO of Advocacy Tasmania, along with witnesses Helen and Susan, shared firsthand experiences revealing inadequate penalties, untrained staff, and systemic failures that silence residents.

They unequivocally stated that the current aged care bill will persist in its current state without substantial modifications.

These representatives demanded immediate and meaningful reforms, including reinstating criminal and civil penalties, enhancing workforce training, creating independent oversight, addressing transport disparities, and restructuring the complaints process.

“Passing this bill without significant changes is not an option,” Groombridge asserted, urging the government to collaborate with advocates for effective reforms through meaningful consultations.

The committee session took place on Oct. 4 through video conferencing.

Push for Harsher Penalties

Susan, who recently lost her husband in a Tasmania aged care facility, stressed the need to reintroduce criminal penalties for senior aged care executives and boards. Without these penalties, providers lack the motivation to meet quality standards.