GLENELG Shire Council has made the in-principle decision to not renew the agreement for the delivery of home and community-based services, following recent changes to the Federal Government’s model of delivery.

If this change goes ahead responsibility for the provision of home support services would transition to a new provider.

The Council’s Aged & Disability staff and clients have been notified of the proposed change and assured that there will be no immediate change to services.

Glenelg Shire Mayor, Cr Scott Martin, said the decision was in-principle and the final vote will occur in February, and that any change in service provider would not occur until June 2023 at the earliest. Community listening and information sessions will be held later in January.

“This in-principle decision was not taken lightly by Council, and was brought about by significant changes to the aged and disability service industry that have occurred in response to the dramatic increase in the demand for aged and disability services,” Cr Martin said.

“The Federal Government has introduced a standard national approach where clients, importantly, have more control over their own care. The new approach will be consumer driven, allowing clients to choose their preferred provider of services.

“Whilst these changes provide more choice for clients, the reforms mean Council’s services will be unable to adapt to meet the new requirements without significant change and cost to the community.”

Cr Martin said that Council would work closely with the Commonwealth to find a suitable provider that can deliver the services, which include home care, personal care, social support groups, property maintenance and food services, to the high standard expected by our community.

The Commonwealth is responsible for the appointment and ongoing management of the successor provider, but Council would remain involved for the transition period to ensure service standards are maintained.

“Like many other Councils across Victoria, Glenelg Shire has had to consider the long-term sustainability of operating home support services, importantly balancing the provision of high-quality care and best value for money,” Cr Martin said.

“Council believes this in-principle decision to transition this service to a new provider is in the best interests of our clients and the broader community and would be committed to ensuring a smooth transition.

“We understand that this is a sensitive process for many of our residents and their families therefore the continuity of services currently being provided by Council is vital.

“The transition to a new provider would ensure the most vulnerable residents of the region continue to be offered the best possible support services now and into the future.

“During the engagement process clients and staff can be assured that Council is committed to the continuity of care.

“It will be business as usual.”

Community listening and information sessions will be held mid-January:

Tuesday 17 January:

• Portland Fawthrop Community Centre – 1.30pm

• Heywood Council Offices Large Meeting Room – 3.30pm

Wednesday 18 January:

• Dartmoor Nursing Centre – 9.30am

• Merino Community Health Centre – 11.30am

• Casterton Kelpie Centre – 1.30pm

For more information go to https://yoursay.glenelg.vic.gov.au/