KPMG has delivered a report outlining options for a Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) for government-subsidised aged care providers.
Following a recommendation of the Carnell Paterson Review, the Department engaged KPMG to undertake extensive stakeholder consultation and analysis to develop a report outlining options for Government consideration.
The Strengthening protections for older Australians - Development of models and options for a Serious Incident Response Scheme for Commonwealth - funded aged care service providers report can be viewed on the department's website. The five options canvassed for a SIRS in the report include:
- Option 1: no change to the current arrangements.
- Option 2: developing guidance material to better enforce the current arrangements.
- Option 3: introducing a reportable conduct scheme requiring all aged care service providers to report abuse or neglect by a staff member against a consumer.
- Option 4: expanding Option 3 to include unexplained serious injury in residential aged care as a serious incident.
- Option 5: expanding Option 3 to include aggression and abuse between consumers in residential aged care settings as a serious incident.
The Department would like to thank the more than 130 aged care sector stakeholders, including representatives of consumer advocate groups, approved providers and the aged care workforce, who participated in consultations during the development of the report.
The Government will respond to proposed options in the report shortly.