Media Release 25th March 2026
Aged Care at a crossroads – time to rethink how we pay for care
Reform must deliver fairness, dignity and sustainability for all Australians
Uniting NSW.ACT is calling for a balanced, sustainable approach to aged care reform to ensure a system that protects those most at risk while supporting high-quality services for all.
CEO Tracey Burton said Australia has made important progress since the Royal Commission, but critical work remains.
"We've come a long way, but the job is not finished. The funding of quality, equitable care remains the unfinished business of reform," Mrs Burton said.
Uniting is urging the Federal Government to strengthen protections for older Australians on the lowest incomes, particularly full pensioners who rent.
The organisation is calling for automatic exemptions from co-contributions for full pensioners who rent, ensuring people are not forced to go without essential support.
"For people living on the full pension and paying rent, these costs come directly out of money for food, medication and daily living," Mrs Burton said.
"No one should have to choose between basic care and the essentials of life."
The proposed change is modest in cost at $50m but would make a significant difference to people's ability to remain safely at home.
Mrs Burton said long-term reform depends on a shared commitment between government, providers and individuals.
"A sustainable aged care system relies on three pillars - strong public funding, efficient and innovative services, and fair contributions from those who can afford to contribute," she said.
She said Australia's superannuation system was designed to support people in retirement, including the cost of care.
"Using our resources to support our own care is part of a fair system and it's what enables us to protect those without means."
Mrs Burton said building a sustainable system will require an honest national conversation about how aged care is funded.
"This is about fairness and trust. Every contribution from someone with means strengthens the system for someone without it."
She said reform must also rebuild public confidence in a sector that delivers deeply skilled, compassionate care every day.
"Aged care is not just a system, it's about people, relationships and dignity in the final chapter of life."
"If we hold firmly to equity, share responsibility, and continue to work together, we can build a system that delivers the quality and dignity older Australians deserve," she said.
Tracey will be delivering the opening speech on day two of the LEADERS SUMMIT 2026 'The Business of Ageing' event at the Hyatt Regency Sydney this morning at 830am.
