VillageLocal

12/04/2025

🧓 “It feels like more bureaucracy to navigate just to get the help we need.”

That’s what we’re hearing loud and clear from older Australians and their family carers.

I recently had the opportunity to speak on ABC News about the upcoming changes to aged care and what they’ll mean for people trying to stay independent at home.

While reforms are being positioned as an improvement, there’s growing concern about what’s being introduced — particularly the new co-contribution fees for essential daily support like showering, cleaning, and meal prep.

Let that sink in: showering may no longer be considered essential care.

For those of us who’ve spent time inside the system, supporting loved ones or clients through it, we know this isn’t just a policy tweak.

It's a shift that risks deterring people from getting the support they genuinely need.

These reforms must not penalise those who can least afford it — particularly full pensioners like Christina Tsobanis' mum, who’ve contributed their whole lives and now face the prospect of justifying their existence to apply for hardship support.

🙏 A big thank you to Fiona Blackwood and the ABC News team for covering this story with care, and for giving voice to the many older Australians and carers who are doing it tough but rarely heard.

Also heartening to see Craig Gear from the Older Persons Advocacy Network highlighting similar concerns — especially around ensuring daily personal care isn’t treated as optional.

We need more of this kind of sector-wide advocacy to push for a system that works with people, not against them.

You can watch the full ABC story here: https://ab.co/44lkqeA

Would love to hear from others working in the sector — are you hearing similar concerns from the people you support?

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13/02/2025

I often get asked, “Jim, who’s the best home care provider?”

In case you missed it, I recently recorded a video on how to find the right home care provider for you (or your loved one). If you’ve just been approved for a Home Care Package, this decision is one of the most important you’ll make. And with hundreds of providers out there, it can feel overwhelming.

In this video, “The EXACT Way to Find the BEST Home Care Provider in 2025,” I break it all down:

What to look for (and avoid) when comparing providers

The difference between fully managed and self-managed providers

Why some providers charge higher fees—and whether it’s worth it

What to do if you’re with a provider now and feel like they’re not the right fit

By the end of the video, you’ll have a clear plan for finding a provider that matches your needs and how to get the most out of your Home Care Package.

👉 CLICK HERE to watch it: https://youtu.be/GEzT5xYi1VE

If you’ve already been through this process, I’d love to hear how it went for you. Did you go with a fully managed or self-managed option? Any advice for others starting out?

Catch you in the comments,
Jim

🔗 Register for the CarePath Navigator program here: https://bit.ly/CarePath-ProgramChoosing the right home care provider is one of the most important decisi...

21/11/2024

Accessing reliable transport isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about staying connected, staying independent, and living life on your terms.

In my latest video, I share:
✅ Community transport services available in your area
✅ How taxi vouchers work
✅ How to use your home care package to stay mobile

And, I share a heartfelt story of local cabbies who are true Aussie legends, offering free rides to those in need. ❤️

🎥 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/IX_JvyCDOmQ

Transport should never be a barrier to independence. Let’s make sure everyone knows their options.

Access to reliable transport is vital for maintaining independence and well-being, especially as we age. In this video, we explore the transport options avai...

12/11/2024

As caregivers, we often put our own needs last. But the truth is, taking a break isn’t just okay—it’s essential. In my latest video, I’m diving into 4 types of respite care every caregiver should know about, from in-home support to day centers, cottage stays, and residential care options.

Whether you need a few hours to recharge or a longer break, respite care is designed to support you while keeping your loved one safe and comfortable. I’ll also cover how to access government funding, use My Aged Care to find local options, and get emergency support through Carer Gateway.

If you’ve ever thought, “I just need a moment,” this video is for you. Take a few minutes to explore how respite care can provide the support you deserve. ❤️

👉 https://youtu.be/Oc9E8aB8icE?si=YqNYdIls1nM42BkQ

And if you’ve used respite care before, I’d love to hear your experience. Was it helpful? Easy to arrange? Your insights could really help others in our community. Feel free to share in the comments!

Want To Navigate The Aged Care System Without The Stress? Register for the FREE CarePath Navigator Program.CLICK HERE To Register 👉 https://bit.ly/CarePath-...

26/10/2024

Aged care can be a confusing maze, especially when the promised support doesn’t fully materialise. Many people find themselves approved for services that feel out of reach or waiting endlessly for meaningful help.

There are hidden flaws in the system—issues that often go unspoken but affect so many. It’s frustrating, and it shouldn’t be this way.

My latest thoughts delve into why some of these gaps exist and what we can do to navigate them better.

👉 Watch here: https://youtu.be/jmb0bgvU0SI

If this resonates, please feel free to share your experiences. We’re all in this together.

Want To Navigate The Aged Care System Without The Stress? Register for the FREE CarePath Navigator Program.CLICK HERE To Register 👉 https://bit.ly/CarePath-...

17/10/2024

Have you been told no when trying to get the home care support you need?

Maybe your funding requests were denied, or you were told that essential services couldn’t be covered. It’s frustrating — but you don’t have to take “no” for an answer!

In my latest video, I show you exactly how to advocate for your rights and secure the aged care entitlements you deserve. From understanding your rights to knowing what resources are available to help you push back, this video is packed with practical tips to help you live comfortably and independently.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ How to navigate the power imbalances in aged care and overcome common roadblocks

📖 Key documents like the Charter of Aged Care Rights that put you in control

💡 Practical tips on how to ask for what you need and turn those “no’s” into “yes’s”

🎥 Watch now to take charge of your aged care journey and get the support you’re entitled to!

If you or someone you know is struggling to access the right level of home care, this video could be a game-changer. Share it with friends, family, and anyone who could use this valuable information!

👥 Join our VillageLocal community hub to connect with others and learn more about navigating aged care.

Want To Navigate The Aged Care System Without The Stress? Register for the FREE CarePath Navigator Program.CLICK HERE To Register 👉 https://bit.ly/CarePath-...

16/10/2024

Big Changes are coming over 2025 to the Home Care Package system, with the Support At Home program being scheduled to replace it.

Join Jim as he goes over what we know so far in this video to learn more about these changes. We'll continue to keep you all updated as more information comes out.

You can find more discussion about this at our community page, where thousands of seniors are members and discuss all aspects of Aged Care.
https://community.villagelocal.com.au/

In this video, we finally have concrete details about the upcoming Supported at Home Program, which is set to replace the current Home Care Packages system i...