LATEST NEWS
International Day of Older Persons
1 October is known as the International Day of Older Persons, which provides an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and reflect on the valuable knowledge and participation that older people have contributed to our communities. It is also a day to become more aware of how we can support older people to feel safe, included and connected.
Media Release – Protecting Older Australians in Residential Aged Care
The Hon Sam Rae MP, Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, has delivered an official statement regarding the Australian Government’s amendment of the Aged Care Rules 2025 regarding the Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF). Under these changes, residential aged care providers will not be able to charge residents a HELF for services they were receiving as part of their care arrangements before 1 November 2025. This aims to legislate stronger protections for aged care residents, to avoid paying for services they were previously receiving at no extra cost.
Temporary Vehicle Allowance Increase for Aged Care Award and SCHADS Award
Aged care and disability workers under the Aged Care Award 2010 and the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS Award) are now able to claim the vehicle allowance at $1.05 per kilometre until 28 February 2027. This increase from $1.01 per kilometre will help to ease financial pressures relating to fuel and maintenance costs and further assist the workforce in supporting clients across large geographical areas.
NDIS Reforms Consultation Hub
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s NDIS Reforms Consultation Hub contains several opportunities for people with disability, representatives, advocates, service providers, and health professionals to submit feedback on proposed changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Consultation is currently open for new framework planning and NDIS supports, NDIS access changes, and Support Coordination and Connection (SCC) service. Read more for further information and closing dates on each consultation opportunity.
Fair Work Commission Delays Pay Increase for SCHADS Award
Following advice from the Expert Panel of the Fair Work Commission, the 15 percent pay increase for SCHADS (Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services) Award Schedule E workers has been delayed from 1 October to 1 December 2026. This delay aims to give the sector sufficient time to prepare to transition to the new award wages.
What the Upcoming NDIS Changes Mean
Significant changes will be made to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) over the next few years. These changes will affect how the NDIS is accessed, how plans are reviewed, how certain decisions are made, how providers operate, and how some funding is calculated. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will be informing NDIS participants before changes that will affect them are introduced, and these changes will happen progressively in a staged approach. People with Disability Australia (PWDA) has compiled information to assist people in understanding these changes as they occur.
EOI: National Aged Care Advisory Council
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is seeking senior leaders and subject matter experts to contribute their knowledge and lived experience to the National Aged Care Advisory Council (NACAC). Appointments to this Council will be part of delivering independent advice to the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors and shaping the aged care system for the benefit of older people. Expressions of interest will close at 11.30pm on 8 October 2026.
