Geelong’s council has voted on a controversial in-home care plan that was subject to overwhelming backlash across the region.
Councillors for the City of Greater Geelong have voted to continue providing the service, following new Commonwealth legislation.
The reforms will see the Support at Home program replace Home Care Packages.
There were concerns that hundreds of local employees could lose their jobs had the vote been unsuccessful.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj has advised locals that compliance with the new federal reforms will see the system undergo a major shift.
“It’s important to note that there will be some changes to how the service operates – these will be determined by the requirements of the Commonwealth Government, but our aspiration is for it to be consistent with the service they’ve come to know and love,” he said.
Council has warned locals that the necessary measures will require additional expenditure.
“Council will continue to work and negotiate with the Commonwealth Government in good faith, and I thank the Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Member for Corangamite Libby Coker for their interest and support,” Mayor Kontelj said.
The Mayor described the vote as a win for clients and employees of the program.
“This Council was voted in to listen to and advocate on behalf of the community we serve, and that’s what we’ve done,” Mayor Kontelj said.
Clients will be contacted after the impact to individuals is assessed.
