No more showering costs as government reverses aged care policy

Aged Care Inspector-General Natalie Siegel-Brown says the Albanese government has made meaningful change to improve aged care. Source: AAP / ALAN PORRITT/AAPIMAGE

Australia’s aged care system is undergoing recent changes, sparking widespread discussion around funding reforms, long waiting lists, and growing pressure on services. While the government says the new approach will improve access and sustainability, concerns remain about delays and the real impact on older Australians. In this report, voices from policymakers, advocates, and experts highlight how these shifts are reshaping care, responsibility, and everyday support for the elderly.

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Published 27 April 2026 1:34pm

Updated 27 April 2026 1:36pm

By Deborah Groarke

Presented by Nabeel Hasan

Source: SBS

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Australia’s aged care system is undergoing recent changes, sparking widespread discussion around funding reforms, long waiting lists, and growing pressure on services. While the government says the new approach will improve access and sustainability, concerns remain about delays and the real impact on older Australians. In this report, voices from policymakers, advocates, and experts highlight how these shifts are reshaping care, responsibility, and everyday support for the elderly.

(For information or support regarding aged care, please call the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600 or visit opan.org.au)

[[** PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION REPORT: https://assets.pc.gov.au/2026-01/rogs-2026-partf-overview-and-sections.pdf?VersionId=bWh24vhbLBJ9XSdufNrPLDyZyRLepb6H ]]

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