Inclusion and Diversity in Aged Care:

Understanding the Bigger Picture

This webinar is all about diversity and inclusion in aged care services. We're going to break down and chat about the twelve (yes, twelve!) different aspects of diversity. These go beyond the nine special needs groups that the Aged Care Act 1997 recognizes. But that's not all. We'll also shine a spotlight on why it's crucial to understand and embrace the idea of intersectionality among these diverse traits. Plus, we'll talk about how aged care services should support people. So, get ready for an enlightening discussion! 
CPD HOURS: 1
 Registration Year 2024-2025

Course Content

This webinar will cover various aspects around diversity and inclusion in the provision of aged care services.

It will outline and discuss the twelve (12) characteristics of diversity - building on the nine (9) identified as special needs groups in the Aged Care Act 1997. It will also cover the importance of recognising and acknowledging potential intersectionality within these diverse characteristics, and how aged care services need to be equipped to meet the needs of individuals presenting with multiple attributes.

The webinar will also be an opportunity to review the Aged Care Diversity Framework (initially launched in 2017 and designed to complement the Aged Care Quality Standards), and we'll also refer to other complimentary frameworks that support the needs of diverse communities. We will refer to the Diversity Framework Action Plan template (developed by Department Health & Aged Care) to assist providers meet the needs and address the barriers faced by people from CALD backgrounds.

Information about Specialisation Verification will also be covered. This was introduced early 2023 to ensure older consumers with diverse backgrounds and life experiences can access more reliable information when choosing their aged care providers.

Independent verification is now required before claims to provide specialised care to diverse groups are published on the My Aged Care portal. Providers will now need to meet specific assessment criteria in relation to Specialisation Verification.

The section on reflective practice will include resources and links to support diversity planning, including opportunities for further promotion and engage with CALD communities.

Learning Outcomes

In this session you will:
  • Explore the principles of Diversity and Inclusion - and understand the difference
  • Review the Aged Care Diversity Framework
  • Provide an outline of the Specialisation Verification Framework
  • Examine resources, links and opportunities that support reflective practice

Mary Andrew

 ECCQ

Mary has a long history working in aged care, with 25 years’ experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs in various roles addressing the complex health and support needs of the Veteran community.