NATSIAACC, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council, has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to exempt Stolen Generations Redress Scheme payments from Residential Aged Care Asset Testing.

It is an important step toward recognising that compensation for historical trauma should not be treated as personal wealth within the Aged Care system.

The decision reflects a broader recognition within Aged Care reform that where inequity is identified, policy settings can and should shift to better support dignity, fairness, and equitable access.

This recognition must now extend across all Aged Care asset testing arrangements, including Support at Home, where many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and Older People are more likely to access care earlier, for longer periods, and through community-based supports.

NATSIAACC CEO, Kim Whiteley, said exempting Stolen Generations Redress payments from Residential Aged Care asset testing was an important and long overdue reform.

“Stolen Generations Redress payments acknowledge the lifelong impacts of forcible removal policies and why these payments should be recognised consistently across the Aged Care system, including Support at Home.” Ms Whiteley said.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES: Sam Harding, samh@natsiaacc.org.au