Helping older people stay local

Older people in rural and remote communities will receive more opportunities to stay close to family and friends when moving to residential care.

The federal government is providing up to 100 additional residential aged care places through the Multi-Purpose Service (MPS).

MPS program providers can apply for more places to either expand an existing MPS or set up a new one.

The program is a joint initiative between the federal, state and territory governments. It provides integrated health and aged care services to rural and remote communities that cannot support a separate aged care home and hospital.

“More residential care places mean that more older people in rural and remote Australia can live near their loved ones,” said Anika Wells, Minister for Aged Care.

“Combined health and aged care services are integral to providing quality aged care in rural and remote communities.

“The additional 100 places for new, or existing Multi-Purpose Services, will make it easier for older people in rural and remote Australia to access care when they need it.”

There are currently 3293 residential care places funded by the Commonwealth, with 29 providers delivering MPS services at 183 sites across Australia.

Applications close on 25 October 2024.

More details about how to apply are on the MPS webpage.

Image credit: iStock.com/PeopleImages