Good news for the Australian aged care sector: after years of trying, the main industry peak bodies, Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) and Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), are finally coming together under the one umbrella.
The new organisation – dubbed the Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) – will officially come into effect on July 1, and its mission statement includes:
- Building on the combined resources, experience, expertise and rich history of ACSA, LASA and others by complementing and enhancing each organisation’s strengths
- Leading proactive and positive change by providing leadership that assures authoritative guidance, communication, and advocacy
- Acting as one voice for influence by uniting the diverse range of aged care providers under one single advocacy agenda
- Valuing and representing individual member voices
- Delivering valued member services by offering an enhanced suite of services at scale
- Providing value for money by applying flexible and appropriate membership fees, and
- Proactively partnering for change by deepening sector relationships to enhance advocacy
ACCPA emerged from a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and according to UnitingCare Australia National Director Claerwen Little, who served as Chair of the Transformation Steering Committee formed to guide the transition, will offer transformational change in aged care.
“This is a very important moment, and a once in a lifetime opportunity to be unified in voice and purpose and hold Government to account as we work toward reform.
“I encourage the entire sector to get on board, help shape this new organisation so it can reflect the needs and views of all within the industry, and support the very best practice in care and support for older Australians,” said Claerwen.
Here’s hoping it can make aged care better – for all Australians.
