Aged care royal commission hears there are around 50 sexual assaults a week of residents nationally
The Royal Commission into Aged Care has been told there are an estimated 50 sexual assaults a week in aged care facilities across the country.
Key points:
The commission heard there had been an estimated 2,520 incidents of "unlawful sexual contact" in 2018-19
It also heard there was a clear connection between staffing levels and quality of care at aged care homes
One of the recommendations from the counsel assisting is for mandated staffing ratios in residential aged care
The commission is hearing final summations by the counsel assisting the inquiry, Peter Rozen QC.
It has heard the true number of sexual assaults in aged care is estimated at 50 each week when assaults by other residents are included, which care providers at present are not required to report.
Mr Rozen told the inquiry that the commission received 588 submissions that mentioned sexual assault.
Following research reports and evidence, they estimated there were 2,520 incidents "unlawful sexual contact" in 2018-19.
"This is a national shame," Mr Rozen told the inquiry.
"As disturbing as these figures are, the evidence of the lack of follow-up by the Australian Government department that receives the reports is, if anything, worse."
The commission has been urged to recommend sweeping reforms to Australia's aged care system.
Counsel assisting the inquiry have asked for 124 recommendations including:
A new law based on human rights principles for older people
Mandated staffing ratios in residential aged care
Compulsory registration of personal care workers
A demand-driven approach to aged care rather than the current rationed approach
A new and independent process for setting aged care quality standards
A new enforceable general duty of care on approved providers
An independent pricing authority that will determine aged care prices
An independent Australian Aged Care Commission that will be responsible for regulating the aged care.
The other counsel assisting Peter Gray QC said there was a clear connection between staffing levels and quality of care.
The commission has received more than 10,000 submissions from residents, staff and providers across the country.
It has heard from 641 witnesses, including 113 with direct experiences of aged care.
Mr Rozen said they salute the courage of all those who have publicly shared intimate details of their lives.
The commission is expected to make its final recommendations next year.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-10-22/aged-care-royal-comm-told-of-50-sex-assaults-a-week/12801806