Indigenous
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples & dementia
Dementia Australia
Dementia resources developed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
How can I engage?
Resources are available from the website:
https://www.dementia.org.au/dementia-and-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-people
National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care (NATSIFAC) Program
Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care
This program funds aged care services to:
- meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and
- allow them to remain close to home and community.
Most of these services are in rural and remote areas.
The NATSIFAC Program offers funding for culturally safe aged care specifically designed for First Nations Elders. This program takes a comprehensive approach by providing a diverse range of services that cater to the unique needs of Indigenous communities. Its central goal is to ensure that First Nations Elders receive care that respects their cultural values and individual requirements.
The NATSIFAC Program has secured additional funding through the 2023-24 Budget. This funding is earmarked to specifically support residential services in extremely remote locations, ensuring that Elders can continue to receive care on their ancestral lands.
The additional funding will also be utilised to assist all services in meeting the new requirements outlined in the transition to the updated Aged Care Act. By doing so, the program aims to ensure that the care provided remains compliant with the latest standards and regulations, thereby guaranteeing the highest quality of service for First Nations Elders.
How can I engage?
Aged care service providers and organisations can apply for funding through grant rounds.
Funding rounds are advertised on Grant Connect. To get automatic emails about new grant listings, register as a Grant Connect user.
Information is also available about the entry pathway into the program.
Any queries can be directed via email to: NATSIFACP@health.gov.au.
Remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Service Development Assistance Panel (SDAP)
Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care
The Service Delivery Assistance Panel (SDAP) offers professional support for services to improve the delivery and administration of aged care services, with a focus on addressing challenges in clinical care, financial and workforce planning, governance, and regulation.
The program also emphasises culturally appropriate support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged care services.
Eligibility for SDAP is open to aged care service providers in small rural towns or remote areas (Modified Model 5–7) and those serving a significant number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals anywhere in Australia. This includes providers of residential aged care, home care through the Home Care Packages Program, and those funded under the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program. Providers in rural and remote areas delivering aged care services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) may also be eligible.
The program seeks to assist aged care providers in rural and remote areas, who face challenges such as higher costs, limited access to professional services, a shortage of skilled workers, and the need to adapt to changes in the aged care system. The support offered through SDAP helps these providers build capacity and enhance the quality of their services to meet standards and legislative requirements.
SDAP support is divided into three main areas: Provider Capability and Support, Sector Development, and Infrastructure Project Management. Provider Capability and Support includes assistance with compliance, quality standards, and building management and governance capabilities. Sector Development focuses on helping providers adapt to changes in the aged care system, offer workforce training, and enhance service delivery. Infrastructure Project Management provides support for compliance with relevant laws and project management of building works.
Additionally, the Rural and Remote Aged Care Management Training Program offers training for aged care managers in rural and remote settings, with no specific prerequisites. This program is delivered by experienced trainers who guide participants on meeting their responsibilities to consumers, communities, and organizations in these unique care settings.
How can I engage?
Organisations can apply by reading and completing the SDAP Application Form.
Email sdap@health.gov.au with any queries or contact your local Department of Health office to discuss your support needs.
Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner
Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care
The establishment of an Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner aims to give a voice to advocate for the needs of First Nations Elders and hold the government accountable for delivering quality care services. The Interim Commissioner’s primary role will involve engaging with First Nations communities and stakeholders to gather insights and recommendations that will shape the responsibilities and functions of the permanent First Nations Aged Care Commissioner.
Remote aged care providers can anticipate a more focused and responsive approach to addressing the unique needs of First Nations Elders. The Interim Commissioner will actively consult with communities and stakeholders to define the role and responsibilities of the permanent Commissioner, ensuring it aligns closely with the specific needs and expectations of these communities. This initiative signifies a significant step towards improving the aged care services available to First Nations Elders in remote areas and emphasizes the government’s commitment to inclusive and accountable care provision.