Care at home - the next chapter of health reform

Palliative Care Australia, Dementia Australia, and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council, took part in a thoughtful conversation that emphasised the significant role better ‘care at home’ options can play in delivering savings to the health and care budget, providing improved quality of life for people under and over 65 years, their loved ones, and carers. Receiving care at home is particularly important for those facing challenges such as dementia and cancer, and members of First Nations communities.

Our three organisations came together for this event to highlight the intersections that exist with our 2024 Federal Budget submissions, while also highlighting the collaborative approach needed to take Australia’s reform agenda further and deeper.

"Home - it's where the heart wants to be and being with the ones you love when you close your eyes and you don't open them again," - Ben Poona, Tangentyere Council Aboriginal Corporation.

"Your family being able to do things and feel like they are helping is really huge," Jodie Clarkson, palliative care patient.

"Care at home provides a sense of identity and agency," Jillian Kidd, Dementia Australia.

"We are three years since the Aged Care Royal Commission - with that comes a responsibility and opportunity to shape what care in the future looks like," - Rebekha Sharkie MP.

The Federal Budget in May is a great opportunity for government to make care at home more accessible to more Australians and take the next steps in health, aged care, disability and cancer reform.

Watch the recording below