Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

I think the focus of the department has been on implementing or getting ready to implement the changes rather than spend resources and time looking at what happens if things don't get done. I think the emphasis has been on how to put in place the new reforms. Obviously, getting this bill finalised is a key part of that.

I know how hard the department and the commission have been working in preparation for this. I know, in the sector more broadly, how much effort has gone in over the last couple of years. I know how hard the minister has been working and indeed, Senator Ruston, how hard you yourself have been working on this. A huge amount of information is already out there, and there's information that's currently before the chamber. This bill formalises and finalises the new aged-care system. There is a lot of preparation, pending the Senate's agreement to this, that is being developed but, of course, can't be finalised until the bill passes the parliament.

I don't know that I entirely agree with your point that there are a lot of things we don't know yet. I agree there is a lot of information that's to be provided, but I think the bill really sets out exactly how the aged-care system is going to work and what people should expect. But, yes, following the passage of this bill, I expect it's going to be a very busy six months for the Department of Health and Aged Care and stakeholders as they work to implement these important reforms.