National Seniors Australia welcomes new Ministers, Mark Butler, Anika Wells and Ged Kearney to their respective health and aged care portfolios, noting a wealth of experience and youthful energy to the roles.

National Seniors Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke says appointing Mark Butler as Health and Aged Care Minister is most welcome, given he held the role in a previous Labor government and was the shadow minister for Health and Aged Care in the last parliament.

“National Seniors is looking forward to continuing our relationships with Mark Butler and Ged Kearney which are well established,” Ian Henschke said.

“We will also be seeking a meeting with Anika Wells as a priority to welcome her to her new  ministry and provide her with the detailed National Seniors research into the priorities in aged care, especially home care.

“The process of responding to the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety is well underway.

“Given the Commissioners’ deadlines for reform will expire this parliamentary term, it is essential the new government gets the policies and implementation right.

“There is a huge public expectation to end the neglect and abuse in aged care,” said Mr Henschke.

National Seniors has also thanked outgoing Prime Minister Scott Morrison for establishing the Royal Commission which was called to restore the public’s “faith” in aged care.