The Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt MP is calling for urgent action to address the critical aged care beds shortage in Hinkler.
Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Mr Batt endorsed the Private Members Business put forward by the Member for Nicholls, Sam Birrell MP, noting the failure of the Government to deliver adequate aged care beds.
“Across Australia there is an annual shortfall of more than 9,000 beds,” Mr Batt said.
“In Hinkler we have the second highest number of people aged over 65 in Australia and the highest number of people living with long term health conditions.
The demand for beds is dangerously high and rising. Aged care facilities are being knocked back for new beds.”
Mr Batt told Parliament that dementia patients are taking up public hospital beds while waiting for permanent aged care spaces.
“The Government’s refusal to accept responsibility is even more concerning given that Labor’s own aged care failures are driving much of the pressure on hospitals,” Mr Batt said.
“The current system isn’t working. The Government must change and adapt. Locals and pioneers of Hinkler are the reason we live in a great place. They shouldn’t be told to move away from their home, away from their family and away from their support, just because we can’t find them a bed.
The federal government is failing stranded Australians.”