Australia aged care reforms face scrutiny in Four Corners investigation

The ABC investigative program Four Corners is set to air a new report titled ‘The Waiting Game’, focusing on the effectiveness of Australia’s aged care reforms. Journalist Anne Connolly, whose previous reporting contributed to the establishment of a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, will examine whether recent policy changes are delivering practical support to older Australians and their families.

A central focus of the investigation is a controversial algorithm used to determine funding levels for aged care recipients. The program explores concerns raised by clinicians, assessors, and families regarding the transparency and fairness of this automated system. Additionally, the report highlights the human cost of delays in home care support, investigating the gap between government reform promises and the lived experiences of those navigating a complex and slow-moving system.