On 18 September 2025, an information session focusing on aged care reform was held at Willetton Library. The event was jointly organised by Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC), the City of Canning, and Carers WA. Around 30 community members from diverse cultural backgrounds attended the event, offering live Chinese interpreting to ensure seniors and carers from non-English speaking backgrounds could fully access the information shared.
Amy from Carers WA clearly and thoroughly explained the upcoming changes. She outlined the significant aspects of the reform and the likely impacts on seniors, carers, and families. She introduced a range of practical tools and resources to help attendees understand how these changes may affect their access to services and support.
The event also marked an important opportunity for CWCC to introduce its Care Finder programme to the community. Supported by the Australian Government, this initiative is available across northern and southern metropolitan Perth. The programme is designed to bridge the information gap often experienced by culturally and linguistically diverse seniors when navigating the aged care system.
The Care Finder programme provides personalised, hands-on support to help seniors and their families:
- – Understand how the Australian aged care system works,
- – Register with and use the My Aged Care platform, with support throughout the application process,
- – Receive one-on-one or small-group guidance via phone, video or face-to-face sessions, and
- – Connect with a broader range of community support services, including health and mental health services, housing and homelessness support, alcohol and drug services, and local social groups.
The service is designed for people aged 65 and over who may not have family support, struggle with communication due to language or literacy barriers, or need extra help to understand information and make care decisions. CWCC emphasises that their approach is hands-on and compassionate, not just handing out a brochure, but walking alongside individuals every step of the way.
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive. Many participants shared that the session was timely and helpful. One attendee said, “I used to feel overwhelmed, and the system seemed too complicated, and I had no idea where to begin. But after today, knowing someone can guide me through the process makes me feel much more at ease."
CWCC plans to bring the Care Finder programme to more community settings, using phone support, online talks, and in-person workshops to expand its reach. As aged care reforms continue to roll out, one key measure of success will be whether the system can truly support those who face cultural and linguistic barriers.
To learn more or access support, contact the CWCC Care Finder team:
📞 (08) 9328 3988
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