Older Australians wary of paying more for aged care, poll shows

From The West Australian, written by Katina Curtis

A poll of 1000 Australians by Talbot Mills Research held over the week before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Aged Care Minister Anika Wells announced the plans found 58 per cent agreed with the principle that wealthier people would pay more, while 27 per cent disagreed.

Men were more likely to agree than women, who historically have retired with lower savings balances.

But when asked if they personally would be prepared to pay more to receive higher quality aged care, the number of backers dropped to 47 per cent.

Under-30s were the most likely to be open to the idea, with 59 per cent agreeing.

The proportion in favour fell as people aged, with just 34 per cent of over-60s saying yes.

But people with household incomes over $100,000, Labor voters and those who lived in the city were all more likely to say yes.

Talbot Mills Research director David Talbot said an overall 47 per cent in favour was a good base to build from in making the reforms.

“These are encouraging early numbers for the Government when it comes to its aged-care reforms,” he said.

“It’s worth noting that respondents didn’t consider potential grandfathering provisions, and this information may see a lift in support amongst the older age cohort.”