This landmark initiative was conceived very much as a first step on the path to finally resolving the problem of young Australians with disability being inappropriately placed in aged care nursing homes.  In agreeing to partner in this effort, federal and state jurisdictions acknowledged that comprehensive information about the target group was lacking; and that the costs of delivering the complex levels of support required by individuals in the YPINH group were largely unknown.

Young people living in nursing homes and their families as well as those living in the community with high and complex support needs, joined those in the disability, health, aged care and community services sectors in the hope that the initiative would address some of the policy and systemic issues that must be resolved if broader, consumer oriented solutions are to be developed.

Nearly 2 years on, we are better informed about the needs and preferences of the YPINH group and the gaps in the service system that must be addressed if this group’s health and support needs are to be proactively delivered.  As a result, the imperatives in 2008 are somewhat different to those in place in 2006 when the initiative began.

Shaping the Future Today will review the YPIRAC initiative’s efforts thus far and deliver the outcomes that must be addressed over the next 2 -3 years.

Because the YPINH group is representative of the growing needs, expectations and aspirations of Australians with disability, getting the COAG initiative’s outcomes right has the potential to improve the lives of all Australians with disability. 

The conference is open to all stakeholders including young people with high and complex support needs living in nursing homes or at risk of placement in residential aged care, family members, public servants, advocates, service providers in health, aged care and disability and government representatives at state and federal levels.