Aged and Disability Support Services under review

Published on 07 June 2019

The Council is reviewing the Aged and Disability Support Services it delivers ahead of changes to the way these services are managed, funded and delivered across Australia.

The change is due to the Federal Government’s National Aged Care Reform which includes the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and new competitive service contracts for the delivery of Aged Care Support Services.

The review is covering assessment, domestic assistance, personal care, respite care, social support, home maintenance, delivered meals and volunteer transport and is expected to take about six months.

Mayor, Cr Scott Upston said the review was necessary due to the importance and complexity of aged and disability care in our community.

“Everywhere that delivers aged and disability services, including Benalla Rural City Council, will be impacted by the changes coming out of the Federal Government’s National Aged Care Reform.”

“We are doing this review early as Aged and Disability Services are a very important part of our community support system. To ensure the services can operate sustainably the Council needs to make considered, informed decisions. We also want to ensure the Aged and Disability Services clients, carers, volunteers, staff and full network of people also have the time they need to move to any new system or adjust to any changes – should that eventuate.”

The Council will host a number of community, staff, volunteers and client consultation sessions during the review process to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute their ideas and experiences.