Australian Federal Budget – 2023/24

With the recent announcement of the federal budget, it is important for providers to understand the implications and opportunities it presents for the Aged and Disability industries. At TurnPoint we understand the role we play in your businesses and have developed this article to run through some of the key changes and updates and how TurnPoint is approaching them:

Aged Care:

1. Support at Home Implementation:The implementation of Support at Home has been delayed by an additional year, now scheduled for 1st July 2025 instead of July 2024. This delay allows for the Government to engage with stakeholders to build out Support at Home. This will mean the extension of existing funding sources such as Home Care Packages (HCP) and Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

   TurnPoint Actions:We will continue to support and provide services as usual across all funding sources. Our dedicated team is actively engaging with development discussions to fully understand the implications and potential challenges from a development perspective. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for both providers when the move to Support at Home does come around.

2. Wage Increase for Workers:Effective from 1st July 2023, a 15% wage increase will be implemented for certain workers under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award (SCHADS). For more information on this change you can view our other article here: You can find more information regarding the increase in Aged Care funding to cover this here: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/newsroom/news/15-per-cent-wage-increase-aged-care-sector

   TurnPoint Actions:TurnPoint is remains compliant with Award Interpretations and can assist businesses with questions around this. We offer a dedicated Payroll Product, TurnPoint Pay, which has an up-to date Award Interpretation module. For more information you can view our article here: https://turnpointcare.com.au/articles/award-interpretation/ As we approach the implementation date, our focus will be on assisting providers in applying the necessary updates and reviewing pay rates to ensure compliance with the new wage requirements.

3. Increase in the number of HCP PackagesThe coming year will witness an additional 9,500 Home Care Packages being made available. This substantial increase in HCP packages not only addresses the growing demand for aged care services but also presents an exciting opportunity for growth. As providers strive to accommodate the additional packages and deliver exceptional care, they may seek new software solutions to optimize their operations.

   TurnPoint Actions:TurnPoint is well-positioned to cater to this surge in demand, offering comprehensive software solutions tailored to the specific needs of aged care providers. We are committed to assisting both existing and new providers as they navigate this potential growth phase and adapt to evolving industry requirements.

Disability:

The government has demonstrated its commitment to the disability sector by allocating increased spending with a strong emphasis on long-term sustainability. While the immediate impact on our current operations may be limited, we anticipate a potential rise in auditing requirements.

TurnPoint Actions:

TurnPoint recognizes the importance of compliance and stands ready to provide guidance, resources, and assistance to ensure our clients meet regulatory requirements and deliver high-quality services. If you are coming into an Audit our Customer Support team is on hand to help you pull the required information together ready for an audit.

General:

1. Superannuation Changes:

Commencing from 1st July 2026, superannuation payments will need to be made on the same day employees are paid. With a large timeline there is still a lot to be worked out including legislation however TurnPoint will be able to assist providers.

TurnPoint Actions:

Did you know TurnPoint Pay has the functionality for you to semi-automate Superannuation payments? With this functionality you can get ahead of the legislation requirements and start paying your workers Superannuation easily every payrun? To learn more why not reach out to the TurnPoint Team today.

The recent federal budget has brought about significant changes and opportunities in the aged care and disability sectors. TurnPoint is committed to supporting our clients throughout these transitions, ensuring compliance with new regulations and providing the necessary tools and resources to navigate the evolving landscape successfully.

With the delay in Support at Home implementation, we will continue to provide uninterrupted support and services to our Aged Care providers whilst improving the system in line with our development pipeline and look forward to helping your business grow.