"This was at a time of huge change when the two departments involved (Health and Social Services) were ill-equipped to handle the implementation of the reforms.”

Kelly says the sector has been ably served by Senator Mitch Fifield but needs a cabinet-level Minister who could ensure a coordinated government approach to aged care, housing, employment, training, transport, dementia, discrimination, pensions, superannuation and other financial matters as they affect older people.

He calls to Malcolm Turnbull to provide this leadership.