Ombudsman finds Labor's aged care algorithm 'unreasonable and unfair', ignores robodebt transparency lessons

The commonwealth ombudsman has issued a damning report on the federal government's use of an algorithm to assess aged care entitlements, labelling it 'unreasonable and unfair' and criticising its lack of human oversight. The investigation found the 'technological black box' disregards transparency recommendations from the robodebt royal commission, raising concerns about automated decision-making in essential services. The algorithm, which determines the level of care older Australians receive, operates without adequate explanation or accountability, echoing failures of the unlawful robodebt scheme. The ombudsman's findings underscore the need for algorithmic transparency and fairness in government services, particularly for vulnerable populations. As the government faces pressure to reform aged care assessments, the report serves as a stark reminder that technology must be implemented with robust oversight and respect for citizens' rights.