The Health Services Union welcomes Minister Anika Wells’ introduction of two aged care bills that represent an important step forward after nine years of abject neglect.
The laws, which arise from the Royal Commission, introduce staff time standards to promote high-quality, person-centred care.
They also give effect to the Australian National Aged Care Classification care model funding and other essential measures, such as star ratings, financial oversight and improved provider governance.
HSU National President, Gerard Hayes said the laws were an important step forward.
“After a decade of abject neglect the first pillars of decency are being laid,” Mr Hayes said. “While there is a pressing need to continue developing care models and staffing standards that incorporate a wider range of occupations, such as allied health professionals, the HSU acknowledges the Government has taken a significant first step in implementing the Royal Commission recommendation for staff time standards.
“Our industry will not be fixed overnight and will require significantly greater resources. But we are confident Minister Wells is headed in the right direction.
“For too long, the aged care system has exploited the time and goodwill of an underpaid, insecurely employed workforce largely made up of women. For the first time there is a crack of light at the end of the tunnel.
“HSU will engage at every opportunity as these bills progresses through parliament and make sure the voice of the workforce is continually heard.”
Media contact: media@hsu.net.au
HSU celebrates historic day for gender equality after Fair Work decision
The Health Services Union is today celebrating an historic decision, with the Fair Work Commission finding minimum award rates of pay for several health, care, and support sector occupations have been undervalued based on gender.
New study reveals multi-billion dollar economic benefit of implementing universal reproductive leave in Australia
Giving workers the equivalent of one day of leave a month to care for their reproductive needs would mitigate the economic costs of reproductive health conditions, which are estimated to cost the Australian economy more than $21 billion per year, and improve mental health and workforce retention, according to a new report.
Federal Budget 2025
HSU welcomes groundbreaking Medicare budget, but more needed for workers The Health Services Union (HSU) has strongly endorsed the Albanese government’s record investments to strengthen Medicare