Highly regarded aged care executive Mr Ian Yates AM has been appointed as the Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care and will commence this role in January 2023.
Mr Yates’ appointment is a key step in addressing Recommendation 12 of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (Royal Commission), which recommended the establishment of both an Interim and Statutory Inspector-General of Aged Care and supporting Offices.
As Interim Inspector-General, Mr Yates will undertake a range of key functions with the support of the Interim Office which is expected to include:
- engaging with stakeholders to assist with developing a review program for systemic investigations
- identifying priorities for the Inspector-General
- delivering education and raising awareness of the roles and functions of the interim and statutory Offices, and
- considering opportunities to report to Parliament, including on the implementation of Royal Commission recommendations
Mr Yates brings substantial experience and expertise across aged care to this role over a decorated career.
Prior to commencing in the role of Interim Inspector-General, Mr Yates has held positions including:
- Chief Executive of the Council on the Ageing (COTA), the national peak consumer body for older Australians
- Chair of the Council of Elders
- Member of the National Aged Care Advisory Council and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council
Mr Yates has also represented older Australians on key federal government and sector advisory bodies, including nine years as a member of the Aged Care Financing Authority.
He was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2005 and is an Honorary Doctor and Emeritus Deputy Chancellor of Flinders University.
The Inspector-General is expected to be appointed in the second half of 2023, pending the passage of legislation.
The Department of Health and Aged Care is consulting on the draft Inspector-General of Aged Care Bill. Comments and submissions on the draft legislation open today and are due by 27 January 2023.
Learn more about the Inspector-General of Aged Care.
Attributable quotes to Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells
"Mr Yates brings a wealth of experience to the role of Interim Inspector-General for Aged Care.
“This role demonstrates our commitment to strengthening and driving positive change in the aged care system by providing the means for independent oversight, increased transparency and accountability in the sector.
“The Interim Inspector-General and, when appointed, the Inspector-General, will provide independent oversight across the aged care system, and will play a critical role in enhancing transparency and building greater confidence in the operation of the aged care system.”
Attributable quotes to Mr Ian Yates AM
“I am honoured to take on this interim role, and will work with older Australians and the sector to understand the issues affecting their experiences of aged care, highlighting problems and recommending solutions to drive positive change across the system.
“The establishment of the Interim Inspector-General, and later, Inspector-General of Aged Care, presents an opportunity to address long-standing issues with the aged care system.
“I am confident we can help build community confidence in an accountable and transparent aged care system that meets the diverse needs of older Australians, their families and carers.”
To review the consultation paper and Exposure Draft, visit the Aged Care Engagement Hub: www.agedcareengagement.health.gov.au.