Opposition Leader Tony Abbott provided a campaign boost for Joanna Gash yesterday, launching the Coalition's aged care policy for the 2010 election in the must-win seat of Gilmore.
Mr Abbott, accompanied by wife Margie and daughter Louise, announced a $935 million package during a visit to Mayflower Retirement Village in Gerringong.
The commitments, compiled by Opposition spokeswoman for ageing Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, included convalescent care for up to 20,000 seniors, enabling them to receive care at home or in an aged-care facility for up to 21 days, rather than wait in a hospital bed.
A total of 3000 high care beds will also be made operational, red tape will be cut as part of a negotiated four-year agreement with the aged care sector, and the dementia program will be expanded to include conditions such as Parkinson's disease.
Another $14 million was announced for the Pet Therapy program and $12 million to establish a companionship program for older people.
Mr Abbott, 52, told seniors that even in a cash-constrained environment, it was important to give older people "the best possible deal".
"As an Australian of the Baby Boomer generation, I want to say how proud I am of the inheritance I've had from older Australians. You have built a great country," he said. "It's now up to people like me and Connie and Jo to build on what we have inherited."
Mr Abbott said the Coalition's commitment to due process and the public was in contrast to the "cavalier approach that the Rudd-Gillard government has taken", referring to reports Ms Gillard skipped national security cabinet meetings.
"We will be a collegial and a consultative government, not a government that thinks it knows best and then wants to dictate to the public."
Mr Abbott responded to a report claiming former Coalition leader Alexander Downer called Kevin Rudd a "f ing awful person".
"It's language I wouldn't use and don't want to see," Mr Abbott said.
"The former prime minister had many faults as a politician, but I don't believe he was a bad human being and he should be treated with respect."
Mr Abbott followed up on Thursday's $20 million commitment to upgrade the Princes Hwy near Termeil, saying it was a credit to the lobbying of Mrs Gash, who has been the Member for Gilmore since 1996.
"Jo has been a terrific fighter for this area," Mr Abbott said.
Email a friend