On Tuesday, 3rd February, BCA Inform was held to provide an update on the latest happenings in the world of My Aged Care. The session was opened by BCA’s Policy Officer, Melanie Chatfield who outlined the focus on aged care services and introduced the session’s two special speakers: Jonathan Craig from Vision 2020 and Lauren Henley from Assistive Technology Suppliers Australia (ATSA).
Jonathan’s presentation focused on recent and upcoming changes to aged care, particularly the transition to the Commonwealth Support at Home program and its implications for people who are blind or vision impaired.
Lauren Henley gave an overview of the Support at Home program from an assistive technology perspective. She outlined that assistive technology and home modifications are now funded through a dedicated stream, which is intended to reduce delays in accessing essential equipment. Further details were provided on funding timeframes and tiers.
Lauren concluded by outlining advocacy options for people experiencing barriers under the new system, including support from BCA and Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).
A dedicated page on BCA’s website will be created to share key messages from the session, along with links to valuable resources.