THE Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety highlighted significant barriers faced by older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in accessing safe, culturally appropriate aged care, and the need for greater choice, control and cultural safety.
Since then, Rumbalara’s Aged Care Assessment Team has actively participated in the aged care reform process, advocating for a more culturally appropriate pathway for First Nations Elders and greater Community control over how Elders are assessed and supported.
This work has led to Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative becoming one of only three Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations nationally involved in the First Nations Assessment Pilot.
Rumbalara has provided culturally appropriate aged care services for decades, including assessments and approvals for entry-level supports. Through the Pilot, Rumbalara can now assess and approve higher-level services, including Support at Home Packages and residential aged care. Previously, Elders relied on mainstream assessment services for these approvals.
Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative’s First Nations Assessment Service takes a whole-of-life approach, supporting Elders from their initial assessment through to accessing the services they need. By providing a culturally safe pathway through a complex aged care system, Rumbalara is helping ensure Elders remain supported, informed and connected throughout their aged care journey.
For more information, contact Rumbalara on (03) 5822 2866.
