Anglicare Australia has said that the Government’s commitment to fund pay increases for aged care workers is good news for hard working staff, the aged care sector, and most importantly, for older people.
“Everyone deserves quality care as they get older. All of us should be able to get quality care, with dignity, when we need it. The only way to deliver that care is with a strong workforce,” said Anglicare Australia Executive Director Kasy Chambers.
“Yet Australia’s aged care workforce is under pressure. Research from the Australian Aged Care Collaboration and Anglicare Australia has shown that wages for aged care workers haven’t kept up with living costs, with workers across the sector being priced out of their own communities. It also found that many workers are leaving aged care altogether.
“A strong workforce is well trained and skilled. It is made up of people that are dedicated to their role who paid enough to ensure they don’t need a second job. Wages must reflect this.
“That’s why the Government’s support for a pay increase is so important – along with their commitment to funding the increase.
“By making this commitment, the Government is reaffirming one of its most important election promises. It also major unfinished business from last year’s landmark Royal Commission.
“Aged care workers across the country will be applauding this news, which will make the workforce stronger and help it support older people. “Anglicare Australia will keep working with the Government to make sure we have a strong workforce, and quality care – and that Australians get the care they deserve,” Ms Chambers said.