The Albanese Government is providing $318 million to continue COVID-19 support for residential aged care homes.
From 1 January 2024, a new Aged Care Outbreak Management Supplement will provide support for another 12 months, replacing the current COVID-19 grants.
The supplement will help all residential aged care providers manage outbreaks. A surge workforce will continue to assist aged care homes impacted by outbreaks.
Residential aged care, Multi-Purpose Service (MPS) and National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care (NATSIFAC) providers will receive around $940 per resident in 2024 through current arrangements.
These measures highlight the Government's ongoing commitment to support the aged care sector to manage COVID-19 and safeguard the health and wellbeing of aged care residents.
Information on aged care COVID-19 support is available on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells:
"The Albanese Government continues to make significant investment into COVID-19 aged care supports.
"The simplified payment process will remove the need for providers to apply for COVID-19 grants and contribute to planning and outbreak management costs.
"Transitioning to living with COVID-19 reflects the aged care sector's increased capability and preparedness to manage and recover from future outbreaks.
"Vaccinations, antiviral treatments, well-trained and dedicated aged care workers, and greater awareness have all contributed to protecting our older community."
