Older Redlanders are being forced to wait months for basic home care support, with hundreds stuck in assessment queues while the Federal Labor Government drags its feet on delivering promised Home Care Packages.
Department of Health data released to the parliament have revealed:
- Older Redlanders are waiting an average of 126 days just to receive a basic Home Support assessment. That is more than four months before they even make it onto a waiting list.
- 495 locals are currently stuck waiting for a comprehensive assessment to determine their care needs.
- More than 560 Redlanders have already been assessed as needing a Home Care Package for higher and ongoing support but are left waiting for a place to open up. This includes 77 who have bene assessed as needing the highest level of care.
Henry Pike MP, Federal Member for Bowman, said the delays are unacceptable and leave older Australians without dignity or choice.
“This is nothing short of disgraceful. Our seniors have spent their lives building this nation, working hard, raising families, paying taxes, volunteering in their communities and now when they need support, Labor is abandoning them.”
Despite Federal Labor promising 83,000 new Home Care Packages from 1 July, none have been delivered in the Redlands, or across the country.
“Labor made a promise to deliver new home care packages by July. It is now September, and not a single package has arrived. They say it’s coming soon, but so is Christmas. Redlanders deserve honesty and action, not excuses.” Mr Pike said.
“The Government claims the sector isn’t ready to deliver care, but that is simply not true. Providers, peak bodies and advocacy groups have told Parliament that they are ready right now.”
Mr Pike said every day of delay leaves local families in limbo.
“Every week another older Redlander goes without the support they need, help with meals, cleaning, showering, or simply staying safe at home. These are not luxuries. They are the basics that allow people to age with dignity and independence.”
Mr Pike vowed to keep pressure on the Government until older Australians in the Redlands get the support they deserve.