Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike MP has backed the Coalition’s action to restore human oversight in aged care assessments, warning that seniors across the Redlands are being put at risk by a flawed, automated system.
Last sitting week the Aged Care Amendment (Restoring Human Override for Aged Care Needs Assessments) Bill 2026 passed the Senate. The Coalition’s Bill seeks to ensure that humans, not a computer algorithm, are responsible for the life-changing decisions that determine the care and support for older Australians.
The computerised Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) was introduced in November 2025 as part of the new aged care system and relies on an algorithm to determine what level of care older Australians receive, particularly for those receiving support to stay at home.
Government officials confirmed at Senate Estimates last month that the algorithm currently being used did not undergo any live trial or testing before being rolled out to make life-changing decisions.
Mr Pike said the system fails to account for the complex, real life circumstances faced by many older Australians including those in the Redlands.
“In the Redlands, we have a large community of older Australians who deserve care that reflects their individual needs, not a decision left entirely to an algorithm with no human oversight” Mr Pike said.
The Coalition bill highlights widespread concern across Parliament and the community about the lack of flexibility and transparency in the current system.
“When I asked Redlanders about their experiences with aged care, the response was overwhelming,” said Mr Pike. “The feedback from my Aged Care Survey highlight the uncertainty and frustration local Redland households are struggling with in navigating the current system.”
The results from the Aged Care Survey showed that fifty-two per cent of people reported waiting nine months or more for an approved aged care package. Sixty-two per cent struggled to access providers even after approval. Eighty-six per cent of respondents said the new Support at Home system is harder to navigate and sixty- three per cent reported feeling worse off under the new arrangements.
“Redlands families rely on these assessments to ensure their loved ones can stay in their homes longer with the right level of support,” he said.
“When the system gets it wrong, it’s not just a bureaucratic failure, it directly impacts the health, independence and wellbeing of people here in the Redlands.”
“Technology has a role to play, but not at the expense of human judgement, accountability, and compassion,” said Mr Pike.
Following the sustained pressure from the Coalition, the Labor Government has rushed to announce it will itself establish an escalation pathway so the outcomes of the IAT can be changed in ‘extenuating circumstances.’
“Yet again the Labor Government is being dragged to act,” said Mr Pike.
“The Coalition has already provided a clear solution through this bill. The Government should stop stalling, do the right thing and give older Australians the certainty they deserve,” he said.
“This is about ensuring Redlands seniors receive the care they need to remain in their homes with dignity.” said Mr Pike