Aged Care Minister Anika Wells says the government is considering a levy on taxpayers to improve the aged care system.

She stated that years of inaction have left the federal government with the need to explore all options, including a Medicare-style levy, to fund higher standards of aged care. 

Ms Wells has called for an open and mature discussion on the future of aged care in Australia, noting the failure of previous governments to address the long-term viability of the sector. 

Ms Wells presented the idea of a taxpayer levy during a recent address at the National Press Club. The newly formed aged care taskforce, chaired by the minister, will evaluate the funding instrument recommended by the royal commission inquiry into the sector.

However, the Opposition has criticised the proposal, calling it a “lazy” way to fund improvements. 

Despite this, Ms Wells says that the taskforce's focus is to provide older Australians with choices regarding their care, whether it be the option to stay at home or enter a specific model of residential aged care. 

The goal is to establish policies that encourage investment in innovative models like the village-style care seen in the Netherlands. 

The minister stressed the importance of a system that offers choice and quality while also providing a safety net for those without financial means. 

Ms Wells acknowledged the desire of older Australians for higher quality aged care and stated that it is currently lacking. She expressed her commitment to developing policies that address these concerns.

Regarding an election commitment to nurses being available around the clock in aged care homes from July 1, Ms Wells acknowledged that the government may not meet this target entirely but assured that there will still be a significant increase in nursing staff compared to previous levels. 

Additionally, aged care providers will be required to report alternative care arrangements to the regulator. 

Ms Wells says she is committed to releasing Labor's position on the Aged Care Quality and Safeguards Commission after receiving a report on the regulator's future six weeks ago.