“We are seeking to prevent the implementation by the Commonwealth Health Department of a new scheme for care in the home that will put at great risk our continued existence,” a Canterbury Meals on Wheels spokesperson said.
The scheme, instigated by the previous Coalition Government, seeks to turn the provision of support at home services by the not-for-profit sector, into a market for buying and selling a product. Canterbury Meals on Wheels is a production kitchen that delivers fresh meals daily to eligible older community members.
Through its volunteers and staff, elderly people in the community receive social contact, a wellness check as well as a fresh meal that meets their nutritional requirements.
“We have high fixed costs and the cash flow needed to keep our doors open under the proposed change from preservice delivery program funding to funding in arrears, will make it extremely difficult to remain viable,” the spokesperson said.
“We believe that the Government should call a halt to the development of the flawed model and start a serious consultative process with the sector to ensure the survival of the providers such as Meals on Wheels.“
Meals on Wheels fearing survival
PROPOSED reforms to the aged care system are causing alarm among care at home providers, including Canterbury Meals on Wheels, who feel they will not be able to compete in a space dictated by bottom line returns.