Multi-purpose services in small rural and remote communities are encouraged to apply for new flexible aged care places under an allocations round opening today.
Minister for Aged Care, Ken Wyatt AM, said the investment of up to $4 million in 2018–19 would provide around 135 aged care places in areas which can’t support stand-alone aged care facilities or hospitals.
"The Australian Government is committed to providing equity of access to all older people. This allocation is one way we are improving services for people in the bush," Minister Wyatt said.
"Multi-purpose services play a critical role in small rural communities, where older people previously had to leave their home town or go to the local hospital to get the care they need."
Instead, integrated health and aged care services pool Australian Government aged care funding and state government health funding to deliver a flexible model that best meets their individual community’s needs.
"This approach improves quality of care, flexibility and access for older Australians in rural and remote regions, in a cost-effective manner," Minister Wyatt said.
Multi-purpose services can apply for aged care places to either expand existing services or establish new ones. Services may also apply to change the level of care attached to an existing place.
Applications close on 5 October 2018. For details about the allocations round, visit the Department of Health's website.
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