Aged Care Advocates Push for Criminal Penalties, Workforce Reforms

Testimony before the Senate Committee on Aged Care Reform have exposed deficiencies in Australia’s aged care system. Leanne Groombridge, CEO of Advocacy Tasmania, alongside witnesses Helen and Susan—who have lived the experience—painted a stark picture of inadequate penalties, untrained staff, and systemic failures that leave residents without a voice. Their message to lawmakers was unequivocal, the current aged care bill will maintain the status quo unless sweeping changes are made. These representatives delivered a forceful demand for immediate and meaningful reform. They called for reinstating criminal and civil penalties, improving workforce training, establishing independent oversight, addressing transport inequities, and revamping the complaints process....