On 7 February 2022, the Commonwealth Government announced that up to 1,700 Australian Defence Force personnel will be deployed to support staff in the aged care sector. Full details of the plan are yet to emerge but here’s what we know so far.
As at 15 February 2022, we are in the training phase. According to the Department of Defence, “Around 200 ADF [Australian Defence Force] personnel are currently completing induction training in Brisbane, Adelaide and virtually in preparation for the surge in support.”
Up to 200 personnel in each state and territory, or up to 1,700 personnel if required.
Although there is some inconsistent terminology, it seems that two kinds of teams will be deployed:
According to the Department of Health, the Clinical Support Teams “will comprise nurses and general support staff and complement the current Aspen Medical Standing Teams.” (The Aspen Medical Standing Teams were established in early 2020 to support the aged care industry in the event of staff losses during the pandemic).
The Department of Defence says, “we will also create our own 10-person standing force teams … These teams will include team leaders, registered and enrolled nurses, and supporting personnel. The Department of Health will decide where to place the teams.”
The “Clinical Support Teams” and the ADF’s “Standing Force Teams” appear to be the same thing, but this is not completely clear.
According to the Department of Health, the Additional Support Teams will assist with “general duties tasks” such as logistics and “screening of entrants to facilities, providing companionship to residents, supporting with meals and other non-direct care functions to take the pressure off qualified aged care workers and medical staff.”