Advocates for older Australians say they are at a watershed moment, with the Royal Commission into the Aged Care sector getting underway in Adelaide.

The year-long investigation will look into neglect and abuse in nursing homes as well as examine structural reforms.

More than 5,000 submissions have been received from aged care consumers, families, carers, aged care workers, health professionals and providers.

Aged Care Minister Ken Wyatt tells John Stanley this is a crucial step in revealing the full extent of problems across the sector.

“It’s not acceptable.

“There are some systemic issues that have been problematic for some time.

“This now will draw all of those out, we will hear of the stories that families will bring forward.

“This reform that will arise out of the Royal Commission is a structural reform for the betterment of all Australians who move into aged care services.”

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