Watchdog for age industry

AUSTRALIANS concerned about the quality of aged care for their loved ones will soon be able to go to a powerful new watchdog.

Following a string of scandals at nursing homes, Minister for Aged Care Ken Wyatt is unveiling a plan to merge a number of agencies into a new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

It’s being dubbed as a “onestop shop” to prevent failures and monitor and enforce quality standards. An independent commissioner will be announced and assisted by a chief clinical adviser.