LATEST NEWS
Fair Work Commission Decision for the SCHADS Award
The Fair Work Commission has announced significant changes to pay and classification for the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services (SCHADS) Award. This includes an increase of 4.75 per cent which will take effect from 1 July 2026, and a new Final Classification Structure (FCS) which will replace Schedules B, C, E and F from 1 October 2027. Workers classified under Schedule E will receive an interim pay rise of approximately 15 per cent from 1 October 2026 as a preliminary decision, with full FCS from 1 October 2027. Existing employees’ wages will also be protected so no pay is reduced upon translation to the new Award, and lived experience is now explicitly recognised as a basis for classification across multiple levels.
Senate Inquiry into NDIS Legislation Extended
An eight-week extension of the Senate inquiry into the government’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) legislation has been secured by the Greens. Although it is projected to reduce savings by several hundred million dollars, the Greens say that this extension will allow extra time to examine the amendments and its implications. The current recommendations in the Bill include amending the Explanatory Memorandum to include further clarification on a number of key issues, and state and territory governments fulfilling their commitments under the National Cabinet agreement to support the long-term sustainability of the NDIS and its foundational supports outside of the Scheme.
Report Released on Transition of CHSP to the Support at Home Program
A report has been released on the Australian Government’s proposal to transition the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) into the Support at Home Program (SAH Program) after 1 July 2027. This report brings together the evidence collected throughout the inquiry via community consultations and advice from experts. The recommendations put forward include a funding extension to the CHSP for an additional three years after July 2027 to allow time for consultation and co-design to occur, and that the CHSP be retained as a separate block-funded program, and not transitioned into the SAH Program.
Registrar Service Charter
This Service Charter has been developed by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and outlines the Commission’s commitment to providers during registration processes, including applications, renewals, and variations. The Charter sets expectations for how the Commission will engage with providers, and works to ensure that quality and safety in aged care is maintained. It does not replace legislative requirements or the Commission’s statutory powers.
New Mandatory Registration Rules for SIL and NDIS Digital Providers
Under new rules from 1 July 2026, supported independent living (SIL) providers and NDIS digital platform providers must be registered or apply to register by 1 October 2026. For providers not planning to register, their clients must move to a registered provider to continue receiving SIL services. There are changes to claims and payments for some providers from 1 July. The National Disability Insurance Scheme Quality and Safeguards Commission is working to make sure that participants and providers are supported through this change.
Treaty Consultations – NSW Treaty Commission
This 12-month consultation led by the NSW Treaty Commission will invite Aboriginal communities across NSW to take part in a conversation about whether a treaty or other formal agreement is wanted, and if so, what form it should take. This process will be community-led and independent of Government. Consultations are planned for multiple days during July in suburbs across Greater Sydney, including (but not limited to) Blacktown, Campbelltown and Liverpool.
Penrith City Council Transport Advocacy
Penrith City Council is seeking feedback from local community members to inform its series of profiles in order to advocate for better public transport. The high dependency on private vehicles due to limited transport services compounds disadvantage and environmental impacts, and further restricts access to jobs, education, and services. Key locations that Council is seeking information about include the Penrith CBD, Kingswood, and St Marys. For more information, contact Megan Whittaker at [email protected] .
Expression of Interest: Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is seeking expressions of interest to join the Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council. This Council plays an important role in the governance of the aged care system. The Council will be central to the monitoring of the performance of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, including providing independent advice to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, Complaints Commissioner and Minister. The Council will also help to identify emerging risks and inform strategy. Advisory Council members will have a broad range of skills and expertise and are appointed by the Minister part-time for up to four years. Expressions of interest need to be submitted by 14 July 2026.
CHSP Providers to Update GPMS Information
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) providers are urged to make sure their information is current in the Government Provider Management System (GPMS) by 31 July 2026. This includes details of the organisation’s responsible person/s as well as any associated providers that are engaged to deliver services. Providers should continue reporting in the Data Exchange (DEX) as usual.
WSU Research Project: Public Transport as a Care Infrastructure for Migrants in Western Sydney
This research project, conducted by researchers from the Centre for Western Sydney at Western Sydney University, examines the experiences of migrants on public transport in Western Sydney. Specifically, this research seeks to understand migrants’ attitudes and experiences regarding migration and life in Australia, as well as public transport reliability, accessibility, mobility, safety, and affordability. The data gathered will help to inform recommendations for more inclusive public transport systems, better transport infrastructure, and improved mobility for Western Sydney communities. All ages are welcome to participate in this research project.
