Independent review of workforce issues in NT Indigenous aged care

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13 November 2008

As part of the Australian Government’s commitment to Indigenous aged care, Minister for Ageing, Mrs Justine Elliot today announced an independent review of three Government aged care workforce initiatives in the Northern Territory.

“This is about developing, supporting and retaining a skilled aged care workforce to tackle the unique challenges of remote Indigenous communities,” Mrs Elliot said.

The evaluation will include identifying the outcomes of the 319 aged care jobs that were previously Community Development Employment Project (CDEP) positions.

It is part of the Australian Government’s Indigenous Aged Care Plan – announced earlier this year.

The review would evaluate:

• The transition of community development placements to paid positions in community aged care services;
• The delivery of training for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged care workers; and
• The development of training resources and other workforce supports such as policy and procedures manuals.

“Boosting the numbers and the skills of people in the aged care workforce in Indigenous communities is an essential step to ensure ongoing service delivery in the Northern Territory.

“The evaluation will provide a framework for further improvements to workforce training and development,” Mrs Elliot said.

The Australian Government will advertise nationally this week for tenders to evaluate these programs.

Earlier this week the Minister announced a range of initiatives including an overnight service at Mutitjulu and more nursing home places in the Northern Territory for remote communities as well as the construction of staff accommodation to retain aged care workers.

In September, Mrs Elliot announced the $46 million plan that will support care staff and management, provide locum relief and improve facilities for Indigenous communities.

The request for tender will be advertised tomorrow. Interested parties can also get more details from www.health.gov.au/tenders.

For more information, contact Mrs Elliot's office on (02) 6277 7280

 

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