THE quality of Australia's aged care workforce is in the spotlight with the launch of a national public consultation program.
Members of the public, aged care residents, families, carers, workers, service providers and employee organisations can take part in a survey and/or public meetings as part of the work of the aged care workforce strategy taskforce set up by Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt.
"With Australia's current aged care staffing needs predicted to grow from around 360,000 to almost one million by 2050 skills and workforce development is crucial," said Mr Wyatt.
The taskforce is being chaired by Professor John Pollaers and is looking at five strategic imperatives:
- Why the aged care industry matters
- Industry leadership, mindset and accountability
- Industry workforce organisation and education
- Industry attraction and retention
- Translating research and technology into models of care and practice
Public meetings will be held in Brisbane on February 22-23, Melbourne on February 26-27 and Hobart on March 15.
Further information: 1800-020-103 (freecall). To access the online survey: agedcare.health.gov.au/reform/aged-care-workforce-strategy-taskforce (go to consultation hub)
