Story perspectives

Home Care Waitlist Soars 26% Amid Growing Demand

10/14/2025

Summary

Home Care Crisis

Waitlists for Home Care Packages rose 26% in three months to over 238,000 people awaiting care or assessments.
Experts criticize government annual rationing of Home Care Packages as failing to meet demand.
The upcoming Support at Home program raises concerns about new co-payments for vulnerable seniors.
South Australia faces pressure to expand accommodation options, with reforms allowing taller retirement villages.
Advocates urge immediate action to prevent deterioration in care standards.

Summary

Hamilton's Care Crisis

Researchers report Hamilton's residential care facilities are in crisis.
They cannot meet residents' complex mental health and substance use needs.
The city subsidizes 800 RCF beds while lacking adequate oversight and resident support.
A 2024 coroner's inquest into a resident's death revealed systemic issues.
A city report on RCFs is due in November to address these concerns.

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Home Care Crisis

Waitlists for Home Care Packages rose 26% in three months to over 238,000 people awaiting care or assessments.
Experts criticize government annual rationing of Home Care Packages as failing to meet demand.
The upcoming Support at Home program raises concerns about new co-payments for vulnerable seniors.
South Australia faces pressure to expand accommodation options, with reforms allowing taller retirement villages.
Advocates urge immediate action to prevent deterioration in care standards.

1 / 2