During 2023, Swan Hill Rural City Council made the decision to transition away from delivering in-home aged and community-based services from 31 May 2024.
The decision was made in response to the planned introduction of the Commonwealth Government's new model of care – Support at Home program - which is part of its National Reform of Aged Care and scheduled to commence on 1 July 2027.
The Commonwealth Government has now approved several providers to provide services that include domestic assistance, personal care, in-home flexible respite care, meals on wheels, home maintenance as well as social support programs from 31 May 2024.
Mayor Cr Stuart King said it was fantastic to have the new providers confirmed and that the focus was now on supporting approximately 500 clients to transition to the new providers.
"Council has adopted the principles of ensuring continuity of services, good outcomes for staff and over time an improvement to the accessibility of in-home aged care services in our municipality.
"The three providers – Uniting AgeWell, Swan Hill District Health and Northern District Community Health Services are all deeply connected as a part of our local service provision and are committed to the same principles of Council," Cr King said.
Cr King also highlighted the dedication and service of Council staff.
"I'd like to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of our Community Care Services Team - we acknowledge this has been a difficult process - and we thank them for their wonderful ongoing services and care for our community's residents.
"We'll continue to support the team with every option available as we know their skills and experience will be highly valued in our local aged care sector."
The process of transition will begin shortly, and clients, staff and the community will have the opportunity to hear from the providers and how the transition will proceed to ensure everyone receives their services.
Services will continue as normal for now, and please direct any questions about the transition to Director Community and Cultural Services, Bruce Myers on 0419113897.
