The Health Services Union (HSU) last night made a further submission to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, referencing case studies of aged care COVID-19 outbreaks in the North West of Tasmania, NSW, and Victoria.
HSU's submission demonstrates how the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the chronic undervaluing and under resourcing of the aged care workforce, with devastating consequences.
All quotes are attributable to Health Services Union National Secretary, Lloyd Williams.
"If ever there has been a moral imperative to improve Australia's aged care system, it is now - in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the findings and authoritative voice of the Royal Commission."
"The HSU notes that the Royal Commission has cautioned reforms that pre-empt its final report. However, the workforce and older Australians cannot wait. There are measures with respect to staffing levels and transparency of funding that can be put in place immediately, and the Government must act now."
"Our submission is in recognition of the lives lost to COVID-19 and their grieving loved ones. We recognise older Australians and the profound contributions they have made and continue to make to society."
"We acknowledge every aged care worker putting themselves at risk to provide care in the face of a global pandemic and the tremendous challenges that presents."
"Every aged care worker is tirelessly delivering safe, quality and dignified care every day, in an increasingly complex and stretched care environment, in the most unprecedented of circumstances. We commend them."
