I, like many other carers on income support, am struggling to bear the cost of caring for my ageing mother, a responsibility that I believe should be shouldered by the government. I am compelled to hire aged care workers out of my own pocket, which accounts for nearly 60% of my income. The financial pressure is immense, causing not only financial strain but emotional distress to both me and my mother's carer's family.

Our situation is not an anomaly; it represents the hardship countless Australians face every day due to inadequate funding for Aged Care by the Commonwealth Government. Amid an inequality crisis, it's unfair and impossible to assume individuals have an abundance of savings to cover these costs. This expectation is not feasible when many people simply cannot afford it.

Facts speak louder than words: In 2018, Australia’s residential aged care facilities were underfunded by approximately $423 million, according to research by Leading Age Services Australia. This chronic underfunding has allowed the situation to escalate to its current crisis level.

Therefore, we demand the Commonwealth Government reassess, reevaluate and readjust the funding dedicated to Aged Care packages to allow every elderly individual the ability to live their last years with dignity and without burdening their loved ones. Please sign this petition to show your support for a revised, fair and adequate funding system for Aged Care.