The Morrison Government is supporting senior Australians in Berri in the Riverland to more easily access the aged care system, with My Aged Care face-to-face services being rolled out.

The new personalised service is part of the Australian Government’s $18.3 billion aged care reform package to deliver an aged care system built on respect, care and dignity for senior Australians, their families and carers.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said an Aged Care Specialist Officer will now be available at the Berri Service Centre to provide senior Australians and their families with personalised support to assist them navigate the aged care system.

“Planning for aged care can be overwhelming for many older Australians and their families. This is why I am so committed to ensuring that senior Australians in Barker have more choices and clear information when it comes to the services they access,” Mr Pasin said.

“Having face-to-face service allows seniors and their representatives to sit down with a service specialist and talk through their aged care needs as well as other health and social services, all in the one location.”

“This new initiative builds on the Morrison Government’s My Aged Care website and call centre, making it easier for senior Australians and their loved ones to make decisions about care as they age,” Mr Pasin said.

Berri is one of 33 Services Australia service centres currently offering the aged care specialist service. The My Aged Care face-to-face service will expand to 80 locations by December 2022, including 10 Aged Care Specialist Officers who will provide outreach support to senior Australians in rural and regional areas.

“Whether you’re looking for help at home or you’re considering a move to residential aged care, Services Australia staff can assist you and step you through the process,” Mr Pasin said.

“Services Australia’s Aged Care Specialist Officer here at Berri can provide in-depth information about aged care services, offering financial information, registration and referral for aged care assessments, and connecting senior Australians with local support services, social workers, interpreters and advocates.”

Appointments to sit down with an Aged Care Specialist Officer can be made by visiting the Berri Service Centre or by phoning 1800 227 475.

Visit My Aged Care for information about government aged care services, and Services Australia for information about Aged Care Specialist Officers.

ENDS