Today’s passage of aged care legislation is an historic moment in addressing the neglect of aged care residents and aged care workers, United Workers Union said today.

“The passage of the first piece of crucial aged care reforms offers the hope that the dark days of neglect are nearing an end,” United Workers Union Aged Care Director Carolyn Smith said today.

“Aged care workers have fought hard on these issues, and warmly welcome the swift action of Anthony Albanese’s Labor Government to live up to its election promises.

“Today’s legislation implements several key reforms recommended by the Royal Commission.

“The Act is the first piece of legislation that will implement sweeping reforms to address serious issues facing aged care workers every day, including a lack of time to care for aged care residents.

“Today’s legislation introduces an aged care facility star-ratings system for consumers, a new funding model designed to improve resident’s access to high-quality care, and aims to improve accountability of aged care providers through governance reforms.

“Each of these measures brings accountability and visibility to a sector that has been put in the too-hard basket for too long.

“The passage of this Act will be followed by additional aged care legislation that will guarantee a nurse being available 24/7 at aged care facilities, and lift care time for residents in line with Royal Commission recommendations.

“Aged care workers are the guardians of quality aged care and are proud that the change they have campaigned for is finally coming to fruition.”