2014

From 1 July 2014, significant reforms were implemented in the aged care sector, impacting both residential and home care services.

The key impact of the government reforms included the removal of the distinction between high and low care as well as the introduction of room pricing and changed financial charges for residents.

A great deal of work was done by Resthaven in planning for the transition in a positive way, including adjustments to administration processes. A name change to ‘Accommodation Enquiries’ was part of the restructure.

The overall intent of the changes was to improve the outcomes and control over the services that people choose, including:

• Greater access and choice for people and their carers
• Increased cost sharing for those individuals with the capacity to pay
• Simplification of the service system.

A key element of the Government’s reforms was to extend competition in the sector.