Families are warning Australia’s aged-care system is “a shambles,” with long waits for assessments and services leaving vulnerable elderly Australians without support.

Kristina Fisher said caring for her parents in Perth had pushed her to breaking point as she struggled to navigate a system she believed was failing.

“We’ve waited 14 months … she might not have 14 months,” she said.

Health Minister Mark Butler has warned demand is so severe Australia needs a new aged-care centre every three days for the next 20 years.

Peak bodies Council of the Ageing and Ageing Australia say chronic underinvestment is driving delays of up to 14 months, with staffing shortages worsening pressure across the sector and no clear solution in sight.