Two of Australia leading bodies representing the aged care industry have announced they are to unite to form one organisation.
Members of Leading Age Services Australia and Aged and Community Serivces Australia have voted to create a single, united organisation to represent aged care providers.
The new organisation will officially come into force from July 1, 2022.
LASA Chair Dr Graeme Blackman said the decision was a landmark for the aged care sector. "This decision heralds a new era for Australia's aged care sector with a single industry association to provide a strong and united voice, as well as a helping hand, for all providers of aged care services."
The Aged Care Royal Commission recommended greater collaboration and a unified leadership representing providers of residential care, home and community care and retirement living for older Australians.
"We know from the Royal Commission that the aged care sector faces enormous challenges as it undertakes reform and what is needed is the strongest possible representation to take our sector forward," said ACSA Chair Adjunct Professor Stephen Cornelissen.
Further details about the new organisation will be announced in the coming weeks.