UnitingCare Australia urges the Government to act now and work with the aged care sector to progress the reform and provide better aged care outcomes.

Director of UnitingCare Australia. "The Government is well aware of the critical shortfalls in the present legislation. Since 1986, reports have identified issues that need addressing. How many more reports are needed?

"It is time to work constructively with people involved in aged care to both amend current legislation and resolve broader aged care issues".

"Overall the direction of the reform is positive and has the potential to deliver good outcomes. The Government’s resolve to rid the industry of bad operators is important. However, it is also critical that Government restores public confidence in aged care and supports the work of the majority of aged care providers who are genuine in their care of older people."

"We need to act now and remove the defects in the operation of the current system. Amendments should not take long to formulate, but they need careful consideration to provide effective solutions."

"Issues such as staffing ratios and bed numbers can be resolved through legislative amendment. To systematically address these and other areas of concern, the Government must work in partnership with people involved in aged care", Ms Davies said.

Actions speak louder than words. UnitingCare Australia is committed to working with government to improve outcomes for aged care in Australia.