28215 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Associate Minister of Health

28215 (2024). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Associate Minister of Health: What concerns/consequences, if any, have been raised in advice, reports, briefings, aides memoire, or any other documents that the Minister received in relation to the aged-care work-force shortage?

Hon Casey Costello: The issues raised in advice I have received include: • The impact of pay equity claims on the recruitment and retention of care and support workers in Home and Community Support Services (HCSS) and Aged Residential Care (ARC). • The challenge to attract staff for both HCSS and ARC providers. • The aged care sector is facing well-documented challenges, including financial pressures, workforce shortages and ensuring equitable access to services.