The hearing examined how the system was monitored, operated and regulated as well as how the new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is likely to improve upon these processes. The hearing also considered the various interpretations of ‘quality’ and ‘safety’ as understood from a broad range of national perspectives. It is not anticipated that leave to appear be extended to anyone other than representative bodies and other potential witnesses who have already been invited to give evidence.

Day 1 – Monday 11th February

The Royal Commission opened its first public hearing with evidence given by Oakden whistle-blower, Barbara Spriggs, who told of her late husband's treatment and experiences at the facility. The Chief Executive of Council of the Ageing (COTA), Ian Yates, gave evidence on a range of topics. He touched on the need for greater transparency in the way complaints are made and the performance of providers is managed, as well as the growing trend for the elderly to receive care at home, where possible. He also advocated for a mandatory requirement to have a registered nurse on duty at all aged care facilities, 24 hours a day.

Day 2 – Tuesday 12th February

While day one of the Royal Commission’s first public hearing heard evidence that focused on individual experiences of abuse and neglect in the aged care system, day two focused on demographics and statistics. The head of the ABS’ Health and Disability branch gave evidence on the severity and prevalence of dementia amongst senior Australians, with the disease expected to be the leading cause of death for all Australians in just a few years. Representatives from other industry organisations including Australian Institute of Health and Welfare; Older Persons Advocacy Network; and Carers Australia, amongst several others, gave evidence that called for greater scrutiny on regulatory bodies and highlighted the concerns faced by unpaid carers and other stakeholders within the aged care sector.

Day 3 – Wednesday 13th February

The evidence given on day three focused more on clinical concerns, particularly as experienced by nursing organisations. Representatives from the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation highlighted the lower level of remuneration of nurses working in aged care, relative to other areas of health, and the impact this has on attracting qualified and experienced registered nurses to the sector. A representative from the Australian College of Nursing noted the lack of exposure to aged care nursing requirements in higher education available to nurses. The President of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Geriatric Medicine outlined the issue of chemical restraint and the use of psychotropic medication in the treatment of dementia.