Far-reaching reform of funding and services crucial for aged care

Labor needs to 'break the bipartisan consensus of neglect' and run hard on tax reform for Aged Care, as well as mental health and supporting the National Disability Insurance Scheme. (NDIS) Jobseeker needs to rise by at least $100 a week, and maybe more. Other pensions could also be strengthened. There is widespread public support for tax reform if tied to crucial areas of public need.

More is needed over the long term to achieve a social wage and welfare state of Nordic proportions. Provision of care needs to be 'needs based' rather than 'capped' regardless of what that means for cost. Government oversight needs to consider 'basics' like food and staffing ratios ; but also broader 'quality of life' issues. In the future one priority should be keeping the elderly 'connected' with internet access.

Labor and other progressives need to mobilise their resources to campaign for extensive Aged Care reform now ; as well as reform for mental health, NDIS, Jobseeker, and other pensions. Aged Care and Mental Health especially are 'in the public eye' for now. We need to maintain and increase the momentum for change while we have the chance. These need to be key issues for the coming election, and also in the development of Labor's National Platform. (a Special Conference is being held near the end of March 2021– this month!)

Activists and parliamentarians are placed to make a difference in unions, social movements, government and political parties. We need to attempt to lead debate and apply pressure as best we can while there is a 'window of opportunity' for change.