CONCERN over possible price hikes for Meals on Wheels and other home support services under proposed federal government changes hangs over south-west councils.
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There are fears a consolidation plan, which would transfer funding from states to federal responsibility, could force service providers to increase charges to cover their costs.
The Combined Pensions and Superannuants Association predicts prices could double under the plan and force elderly people into nursing homes earlier than they would like.
Aged and Community Services Australia echoed the concerns that higher-cost services would force people to give up their independent living at home.
Warrnambool City Council community development director Vicki Mason said that at this stage there was no move to increase home and community care services fees beyond normal council budget rises.
However, the situation could be different when control was transferred from state to federal governments from July 2016.
“It’s now out for consultation,” said Ms Mason, who is also in the leadership group of the Great South Coast Group of municipalities.
“The transfer in Victoria has been delayed by a year.
“When the change happens local government will have to decide on whether to continue providing the services which may go out to other market providers also.
“We will communicate directly with our clients if there are to be any changes.”