North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels (NSMoW) is preparing for a period of significant growth in 2026, as changes to the Federal Government’s Aged Care Act and reforms to Home Care Packages reshape the way older Australians access care and support in their own homes.
The reforms, which place a stronger emphasis on ageing at home, increased consumer choice, and flexible service delivery, are expected to drive increased demand for trusted, community-based providers such as Meals on Wheels.
Luke Sikora, Chair of North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels, said the organisation is well placed to meet this growing need.
“For 58 years, North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels has proudly served our local community with a service that is reliable, trustworthy and deeply connected to the people we support,” Mr Sikora said.
“The changes to the Aged Care Act and Home Care Packages will see more older Australians supported to remain independent in their own homes for longer. That means services like Meals on Wheels will play an even more important role in delivering not just nutritious meals, but regular social connection and wellbeing checks.”
Under the new aged care framework, home care is being strengthened to provide greater flexibility, transparency and access to essential supports. As a long-standing local provider, NSMoW has been planning ahead to ensure it can respond to the expected increase in demand across the North Shoalhaven region.
“We are gearing up operationally and strategically for growth in 2026,” Mr Sikora said.
“Our organisation has a strong track record, dedicated volunteers, and deep community trust. We are ready to grow alongside the community we’ve served for nearly six decades.”
As demand increases, NSMoW is also calling on more community members to consider
volunteering.
“Our volunteers are the heart of Meals on Wheels,” Mr Sikora said.
“As we prepare to serve more people, we will need more locals to step forward and help us deliver meals, connection and care. Volunteering is a simple but powerful way to make a real difference in someone’s life.”
North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels encourages anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about its services to get in touch and be part of the next chapter of this long-standing community organisation.
