This will allow care providers to access an education and training program created specifically for aged care chefs and cooks by the Maggie Beer Foundation.

Eldercare Chief Executive Jane Pickering said it was an honour to welcome the Prime Minister and Minister for Aged Care to the southern suburbs aged care home, and that this program would make a difference to residents as the quality of the food experience is often linked to quality of life.

At the press conference, Mr Albanese referred back to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, noting that food quality was one of the key themes, and that this program will play a part in the Australian Government’s response to the findings.

“We needed to do much better, and we are doing much better. Nurses are coming back into nursing homes. We are getting increased times of care for aged care residents. And this program is an important component because what this shows is respect for our older Australians, our Australians who built this country,” said Mr Albanese.

Ms Wells said today’s launch of 11 online modules will allow cooks, chefs, and kitchen assistants in aged care homes across the country to develop the skills and tools to produce good food and improve the quality of life of the residents they care for.

“It’s more than just the nutritional elements of the food that you prepare, it’s the experience of eating, it’s the aromas that infiltrate throughout the centre,” said Ms Wells.

“It’s the fresh quality, local produce that I know Eldercare focuses on when they bring those food and nutrition [ideas] to their preparation here at Seaford.

“We are so pleased to be able to deliver something so important to us – better food and nutrition for aged care residents with an Australian icon like Maggie Beer.”

Mr Albanese, Ms Wells, Ms Rishworth and Ms Beer plated up some food before joining residents for afternoon tea.

Mr Albanese is expected to announce the date of the Voice to Parliament Referendum tomorrow.