The Australian Government's latest aged care reforms sent ripples of concern through the senior community.

The reforms, which could redefine aged care support in the country, may make several essential services expensive for many older Australians.

These changes could leave them isolated and struggling to manage their daily needs.


Flexi Care's General Manager, Adrian Morgan, has been vocal about the potential repercussions of these changes.

With over three decades of experience as a non-profit home care provider in South Brisbane, Morgan fully understood the role assisted shopping plays in seniors' lives.

It's not just about picking up essentials; it's about the opportunity to step outside, engage with the community, and enjoy a semblance of normalcy in their routine.


Under the new reforms, assisted shopping would be categorised as an 'everyday living' service.

This classification could mean that seniors will be required to cover up to 80 per cent of the cost, with even full pensioners facing a minimum contribution of 17.5 per cent.

'A lot of pensioners don't have much money left over,' Morgan said.

'We are expecting that people will say, "It's too expensive. I can't afford it," and stop using the service altogether.'


This decision could have dire consequences, as assisted shopping could be a way for seniors to go out, especially those with limited mobility or social opportunities.

For some, the weekly trip to the supermarket could be the only time they regularly leave the house.

They look forward to social interaction—whether it's a friendly chat with the cashier, a chance encounter with an old friend or a simple stop for a coffee.

These outings provide both emotional support and light exercise, which is crucial for their physical health.


According to the latest data, the costs for assisted shopping under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) are $11 per service.

However, the reforms could introduce higher contributions determined by government-set pricing.

The situation could be more concerning for seniors awaiting Home Care Packages (HCPs), which support those with higher needs.
With waiting lists stretching up to 18 months, many seniors still need access to essential services during the waiting period.


Morgan shared alarming anecdotes of staff finding empty fridges or expired milk during home visits, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Morgan called for assisted shopping services to be reclassified under the 'independence' category of the reforms.

This would reduce the maximum client contribution to 50 per cent and better reflect the service's role in letting seniors maintain social connections and self-sufficiency.

However, despite the potential reduction in costs, a 50 per cent contribution could still be a burden for many.

Morgan believed that a more reasonable price cap would be at 30 per cent, but the current discussions suggested a 50 per cent contribution for the independence category.

'It's not person-centred when you make it this difficult for people to access essential services,' Morgan remarked.


The proposed reforms risk not only increasing isolation among seniors but could also lead to a decline in both physical and mental health.

The loss of assisted shopping services could mean the removal of a crucial social outing.

In severe cases, seniors might forego groceries altogether.

'These hurdles, both financial and administrative, risk leaving many older Australians behind,' Morgan concluded.

'We need a system that values their independence and ensures they can access the services they need without fear of financial strain or bureaucratic roadblocks.'
Have you or someone you know been affected by the reforms? What can be done to help seniors maintain access to services like assisted shopping? Share your experiences and thoughts with us in the comments section.