FROM THE LAST MEETING

Meeting was formally opened by President Rohan and following visitors welcomed;
  • Maria Groner
  • Elaine Shallue
  • Nicholas Oei - Student
  • David Rosenbery - Student
Announcements
Millie reminded all of the Families Day at Science Works, Sunday 11th September.
Millie also announced a further social event ‘Drinks and Snacks’ now in planning for end of October. Details to come later.
Alan advised that David, our Exchange Student from Germany, has considerable time available for learning more about Victoria between now and the next few weeks.  Members are invited to include David is outings and tours -a win/win.  
 
Guest Speaker;
Rob Landale. 
“The Aged Care Industry and implementation of the Royal Commission recommendations.’
Rob commenced with explanations of some of the data arising from the Royal Commission which might be summarised:
  • There are 148 recommendations for regulation in;
    • Quality of Care
    • Star ratings
    • Care Staff
    • At home care
    • Aged Care fees
  • The Commission visited 33 facilities during 2019.
  • The Commission heard 600 witnesses over 18 months
  • There were 14 roundtable discussions and 12 community forums Australia wide.
 
Recommended Entities;
  • A new National Cabinet Reform Committee -comprised of politicians Federal and States
  • A new Aged Care Commission – comprised of 9 Board members appointed by the Governor General. To administer the aged care system, star ratings and quarterly reports to the Minister and Parliament
  • A new Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority
  • A new Aged Care Advisory Council -appointed by Federal Minister
  • A new Council of Elders to advise the minister on safety, rights and dignity of older people
  • Continuance of Aged CARE Safety and Quality Authority
  • Continuance of Dept of Health and Aged Care
  • Continuance of Inspector-General of Aged Care
           
Rob gave examples of difficulties he has observed in a few care facilities.  He said that wages of employees are low which tends to lead to short term employment with loss of experience.  He said that generally he has seen staff wanting to do more but the system needs fixing and profit factors make it difficult for good practices to be employed overall.
There is a consumer demand for more at home care and this is supported by Government.
Looking ahead Rob questions how greater funding is going to filter through the Aged Care facilities operations for the ultimate benefit of the residents.   
In question time members related their experience with various care facilities highlighting preference for home care; the systems variance between operating large city care facilities compared with considerably smaller scale country homes; the not-for-profit sector for aged care that tend to operate on reduced income levels; and implementation of the star rating which appears hinged on all residents receiving 200 minutes of contact with staff each day can be achieved.  
Chair for the day Russell thanked Rob.
 
David Rosenbery.   Exchange Student

We were treated to a violin piece by David, equipped with a Hawks cap.  David is a very personable young man who is fitting in very well with the club.
 
Meeting Closed
In closing the meeting President Rohan thanked Rob and David for their contributions and farewelled our visitors.