Growing regional aged care capacity

There is a growing gap in access to residential aged care for older Australians living in regional communities. Faster population ageing, combined with limited new investment, is increasing pressure on service and leading to longer wait times and fewer care options close to home.

Key barriers to investment in regional areas include higher building and workforce costs, lower revenue potential and policy settings that direct capital toward metropolitan developments. These challenges can limit the availability of local care and place additional strain on families and the broader health system.

We have set out a range of reform options to help rebalance investment, including expanding capital funding programs, improving planning processes, introducing targeted financial incentives, and strengthening workforce pathways.

Targeted and coordinated reform will ensure that  older Australians can access high-quality aged care when and where they need it, now and into the future.