‘A huge human cost’: Labor criticised over delays to aged care reforms as waitlist grows

Senate votes to establish inquiry after aged care minister rejects calls to bring forward additional 20,000 home care packages Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Labor is facing a backlash over aged care services as a delay to landmark reforms prompts calls for urgent funding for 20,000 additional home packages and warnings that a two-speed system is locking out poorer elderly people. The Albanese government lost its first parliamentary vote of the new term on Monday afternoon, when the Senate voted to establish an inquiry into delays for home care packages, including unmet needs and the wellbeing of seniors waiting for assistance.