MEDIA RELEASE
COTA WA WELCOMES WA LABOR’S COMMITMENT TO NATION-LEADING AGED CARE SUPPORT
Council on the Ageing Western Australia (COTA WA) welcomes the WA Labor Government’s announcement of a $140 million aged care package designed to improve access to aged care services, support people living with dementia, and ensure older Western Australians receive high-quality care that meets their needs.
The commitment, which includes a $100 million low-interest loan facility for aged care providers, a pilot of Integrated Older Adult Care Hubs, the establishment of WA’s first Dementia Action Plan, and support for culturally sensitive Aboriginal aged care, represents a significant investment in the future of aged care in Western Australia.
Dr Carmen Lawrence AO, Chair of COTA WA, welcomed the announcement, highlighting its potential to deliver positive change for older Western Australians.
“Older people across WA deserve access to quality aged care services that respect their dignity and independence. This commitment by a re-elected WA Labor Government is a step in the right direction to ensure older Western Australians receive the care and support they need.”
COTA WA CEO Mark Kinsela commended the focus on expanding concessional aged care beds and introducing new models of care to keep older people well in the community.
“Too many older Western Australians are stuck waiting for help to find aged care services and support. Older people tell us the system is hard to navigate, and people get lost between the primary care, hospital and aged care systems. The introduction of the Integrated Older Adult Care Hubs has the potential to solve this system-wide problem.”
“We also welcome the commitment to expand concessional aged care beds. Many older Western Australians struggle to find affordable aged care, and this funding could help relieve some of that pressure.”
“This election commitment is a great step forward and with genuine co-design with older Western Australians may potentially solve a major crisis in our health and aged care systems.”
“COTA WA looks forward to working with the WA Government to ensure these initiatives deliver the best possible outcomes for older people across the state.”
COTA WA will continue to advocate for improvements in aged care, particularly in workforce planning, community-based support, and addressing social isolation among older Western Australians.
ENDS
Media Contact: Mark Kinsela, Chief Executive Officer
Phone: 0407 796 990
Email: markkinsela@cotawa.org.au
Website: www.cotawa.org.au
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