The additional investment will allow the organisation to keep supporting collaboration and innovation throughout the aged care sector.
The federal government has awarded $13 million to Aged Care Research and Industry Innovation Australia to continue the organisation’s efforts in driving innovation and workforce capability in the aged care sector.
The two-year funding package will allow ARIIA to begin the second phase of its strategic activities, which focuses on building new, technology incorporated and evidence-based models of care – particularly in the home setting.
ARIIA, formerly known as the Aged Care Centre for Growth and Translational Research, was formed in late 2021 following the release of the federal government’s aged care workforce strategy, to address the growing needs of the aged care industry.
The federal government made an initial funding investment of over $30 million, which ARIIA has used to fund over 60 projects across the nation. Half of the initial investment was channelled into researching problems identified by individuals and organisations within the aged care field.
“We are proud of our achievements to date having successfully launched a series of initiatives using translational research to enhance workforce capability through the adoption of technology and more evidence-based practices,” said ARIIA CEO Reuben Jacob.
“The new round of funding will enable ARIIA to broaden our local and international partnerships and allow us to implement scalable, evidence-based solutions across the sector including a focus on emerging technologies such as AI and digital strategies.”
ARIIA’s founding research director Professor Sue Gordon, said the rapidly-increasing number of people over the age of 65 years knew the type of aged care they want – and they wanted it now.
“By 2050, there will be more people over the age of 65 than those aged under 18. The new generation of elders rightfully expect a new 21st century model of aged care and they want it urgently,” she told media.
“One of our priority areas will be the community care sector, with 80 per cent of older people indicating they wish to age in place. This means an urgent upskilling of aged care workers to broaden the range of physical, social and psychological support services that will enable elders to stay at home longer.”