BaptistCare’s response to the AN-ACC funding decision

BaptistCare is deeply disappointed by the Australian Government's decision to increase the AN-ACC price by just 2.55 per cent while leaving the hotelling supplement frozen.

Australia needs additional aged care capacity, yet this decision makes it harder for providers to invest in the homes, beds and workforce needed to meet growing demand.

BaptistCare Chief Executive Officer Charles Moore said the announcement sends the wrong signal at a time when Australia should be focused on expanding aged care capacity.

"The aged care sector is already struggling to keep pace with growing demand. We need significant investment in new capacity, but this decision moves us further away from that goal."

"Providers have spent years working alongside Government to lift quality standards, strengthen the workforce, implement significant reform and contribute to discussions about the long-term sustainability of aged care. Those changes are important and necessary, but they come with real costs that must be reflected in funding settings."

"Older Australians deserve a system built on financially sustainable foundations, one that can deliver quality care today while investing in the homes, beds and workforce needed for tomorrow."