The Challenge: Navigating a Rapid Shift in Aged Care
In 2012, the Australian Government launched the 'Living Longer, Living Better' reform package, designed to reshape the aged care system. The reforms aimed to improve the quality and accessibility of care for older Australians, amidst a rapidly growing demographic. By 2051, projections showed that 20% of the population would be aged 70 or older, creating significant challenges for aged care providers.
The key challenge for many smaller providers was the tight two-year timeframe to comply with these reforms. Many lacked the resources, expertise, and financial capacity to meet the required standards, risking business closure if they couldn’t adapt quickly. Without clear guidance, they were unsure how to navigate these changes effectively.
The Solution: Supporting Providers with Strategic Guidance and Tools
The Workforce Innovation Network (WIN) was introduced to assist aged care providers in navigating the reforms. WIN offered tailored support, workforce development tools, and strategic planning to help providers redesign their business models and meet the new standards.
By connecting providers with industry experts and offering practical solutions, WIN helped smaller providers implement necessary changes to ensure sustainability and compliance.
Implementation & Execution
WIN’s approach started with a Reform Ready Review (RRR), an assessment tool to gauge providers' readiness for the reforms.
✅ National Network of Business Partners: Nine partners were recruited across Australia to support providers with RRRs, aiming to complete 20 reviews in each state and territory.
✅ Grant Funding & Support: Providers who completed the RRR received a score and a report that allowed them to apply for $20,000 AUD in grant funding to help implement workforce changes.
✅ Regional Collaboration: Local industry reference groups guided projects that promoted regional innovation and collaboration.
✅ Networking & Knowledge Sharing: Successful providers attended national conferences and regional roadshows to share best practices.
Key Achievements & Impact
✅ 140 RRRs completed across Australia, helping providers assess and improve their readiness for reform.
✅ $2.8 million AUD in grants allocated to support workforce transformation.
✅ 9 regional projects funded to foster collaboration, such as a conference in Hunter Valley, NSW, and a mentoring program in South Australia.
✅ Providers saw an average 27% improvement in their readiness scores, indicating substantial progress in reform compliance.
✅ The WIN model was adopted by the Disability sector, extending its impact.
Results: Empowering Providers for the Future
The WIN initiative played a crucial role in helping aged care providers transform their workforce strategies. Key long-term outcomes included:
✅ Increased staff retention due to better workforce development strategies.
✅ Improved service delivery and compliance with government standards.
✅ Stronger ties to education and training programs, ensuring providers were equipped to meet future needs.
The WIN initiative’s success ensured that aged care providers were ready to meet the evolving needs of older Australians, improving the quality of care and setting the stage for future sustainability in the sector