In-home services and support organisation ADSSI has added to the federal government’s bonus payment for Home Care Package support workers to include all direct care staff.
In February, the government announced a bonus of up to $800 to be paid to eligible aged care staff in government-subsidised home care and residential care.
It was the fourth bonus paid in recognition of the commitment of aged care workers to the care of senior Australians during the pandemic.
However, as ADSSI offers services under several funding streams, many staff were not eligible for the payment.
At the end of March, the board of directors at the organisation approved a $300 payment to every direct care worker who commenced work with the organisation before February 1.
The ADSSI bonus payment includes support workers working in aged care and disability services, trade staff, registered and enrolled nurses, allied health and linen and transport professionals.
Chief Executive Officer Jenni Allan said in a statement that ADSSI wanted to acknowledge all direct care staff.
“Their commitment to delivering multiple client services daily despite the increased COVID-19 risk and the added discomfort of providing services while wearing PPE is nothing short of valiant.
“Plus, if an employee was eligible to receive some of the government’s bonus, we will ‘top up’ their payment to the $300.”
Ms Allan said the payment celebrates the ADSSI vision of “helping every client live their best life”
“Maintaining independence and living at home longer is important for people as they grow older.”
*CCR understands that some staff have not yet received payments from their employer. If you have been affected by non-payment, or are still waiting for your bonus, please let us know at editorial@australianageingagenda.com.au
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