Sydney: Australia’s aged care system is facing growing criticism after new figures revealed that thousands of older people died while waiting for essential care services.
Data presented during recent parliamentary discussions show that about 4,800 elderly Australians passed away in the past financial year before receiving the level of home care they had been approved for. The figures highlight serious delays in delivering support to vulnerable seniors.
As of late 2025, more than 130,000 people were waiting for home care packages. Many received no funding at all, while others were given lower support levels than what health assessments recommended. On average, older people wait several months, and in many cases close to nine months, before receiving assistance.
Advocates say the delays are placing elderly citizens at risk and forcing families to cope without adequate support. During a Senate hearing, one case described a 99 year old couple told they might wait up to a year for increased care despite clear medical needs. They were not prioritised because they did not meet certain criteria such as living alone.
The shortage of aged care services is also affecting hospitals. Thousands of elderly patients remain in hospital beds even after they are medically fit for discharge because suitable aged care placements are unavailable. Health officials warn this is contributing to overcrowded emergency departments and longer waiting times for treatment.
Experts say the crisis reflects rising demand from an ageing population combined with workforce shortages and limited care capacity. Although recent reforms aim to strengthen standards and improve the rights of older people, the long waiting lists show that major gaps remain.
Advocacy groups are urging the government to increase funding, expand the care workforce and improve prioritisation systems so that vulnerable seniors receive support sooner.
The situation has intensified debate about how Australia will care for its ageing population in the coming years, with calls for urgent action to prevent further loss of life while people wait for help.