Aged & Disability Services’ future in the Gannawarra to be discussed

Published on 16 March 2023

Gannawarra Shire Council will begin discussions with local providers to determine the future direction of Aged and Disability services (known as Community Care), with a final decision set down for June 2023.

These discussions following on from Council’s decision at its March 2023 meeting to work through options within the Community Care Business Plan to secure the future of Aged and Disability Services within the Gannawarra.

Council has spent the past 12 months exploring options for its Community Care services through the development of a Strategic Business Plan, prompted by the planned introduction of the Federal Government’s new Support at Home (SAH) program, which is part of its National Reform of Aged Care.

Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said the decision to commence broader discussions with local providers, staff and volunteers would help support a final decision to ensure Aged and Disability services would continue and grow into the future.

“Council is working to determine the best solution for Aged and Disability services within Gannawarra that ensures continuity of service for our clients and provides an opportunity for the service to continue to grow and develop,” he said.

“It is essential for current service delivery to adopt, embrace and enhance the opportunities ahead, to ensure the community benefits from future programs and service delivery.

“The decision to commence discussions with local providers, staff and volunteers regarding the future of Aged and Disability services within Gannawarra recognises the challenging environment that has arisen in the delivery of this service, through Federal legislative reform.   However, the community can be reassured that Council are committed to the continuation of delivering high-quality services within Gannawarra and will be working hard to ensure a positive outcome for all involved.

“In the meantime, there will be no immediate change to Council’s service delivery – with Council committed to continuing to support our clients.”

From 1 July 2024, the SAH program will be a new, integrated program that will combine the Commonwealth Home Support Program and a range of other aged care programs. As a result, Gannawarra Shire, like many other councils, have had to consider its future role in aged and disability services delivery.

Mr Rollinson thanks all staff and volunteers for their commitment and continued dedication to clients and the broader community in their delivery of high-quality services.

“Our Community Care staff provide an outstanding service to residents within our community, delivered with kindness, compassion and care,” he said.

A set of Frequently Asked Questions that provides further detail regarding Council’s decision can be viewed on Council’s website.

“The changes within the sector are quite complex and we encourage our community to take the time to read the FAQs to gain further understanding of Council’s decision,” Mr Rollinson added.

To read the FAQs, visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/CommunityCare