SENATOR THE HON CONCETTA FIERRAVANTI–WELLS PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES LIBERAL SENATOR FOR NEW SOUTH WALES Need to Address Cultural Needs in Aged Care 19 June 2015 The Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney-General and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Services, Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, today addressed the CALDWays Conference in Sydney about the importance of culturally appropriate aged care. Representing the Minister for Social Services Scott Morrison, and Assistant Minister for Ageing Senator Mitch Fifield Senator Fierravanti-Wells said Australia’s cultural diversity demanded aged care that is appropriate and sensitive to people from different backgrounds. “As one of the most culturally diverse nations in world, it is essential that our aged care system responds to the culture, language and beliefs of different communities,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said. “Australia is home to more than 600,000 people over the age of 65 years who were born overseas, and this figure is rapidly rising. The need is here and now. “Recognising this, the Australian Government has committed $3.8 million this year to extend the Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC) programme for a further two years. “PICAC supports aged care providers with training and resources to assist them to deliver culturally appropriate care for older Australians, both in residential care and in their own homes. Senator Fierravanti-Wells stressed that with the move to aged care which gives people more choice and control over their care that more appropriate support for CALD communities is available from aged care providers. She had witnessed first-hand the impact that loss of English language skill had on her father when despite his CALD package he was only able to communicate with family and friends. “There are PICAC organisations funded in each state and territory, helping to break down some of the barriers people face in accessing culturally appropriate aged care. “An additional $100,000 will support and promote an understanding of cultural issues and accessibility of services through My Aged Care. |