The Australian Government is the main funder and regulator of aged care services in Australia. It oversees a complex system with various programs and policies. Following a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which examined service quality, community needs, and areas for improvement, a series of reforms were recommended. The Commission’s report included 148 recommendations addressing governance, workforce, technology, integration with other systems such as health and disability, equity and access, and funding and investment.
Government reforms
The Government’s reform agenda aims to ensure high-quality and sustainable aged care, supporting growing numbers of older Australians who wish to stay independent and live at home as they age. Key policy initiatives include:
- A new Aged Care Act
Effective from 1 July 2025, the Act will adopt a rights-based approach to provide safe, compassionate, and high-quality care. A new regulatory model will support these changes.
- Revised and strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards
Revised standards have been developed to clearly define what constitutes quality care.
- National Aged Care Mandatory Quality Indicator Program
This QI Program measures critical areas of care impacting the health and wellbeing of aged care residents.
- Support at Home Program
Starting 1 July 2025, this program will replace the existing Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme will transition into Support at Home no earlier than 1 July 2027.
- Star Ratings
Ratings have been introduced to help older Australian compare the quality, safety, and services of aged care homes. Each home receives an overall rating and ratings across four subcategories.
- Workforce changes
Initiatives include a 15% wage increase and scholarships for nursing and allied health. All aged care homes are required to have a registered nurse onsite 24/7, with some exemptions.
- National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines
These have been introduced to improve the quality of life for residents in aged care homes.
- National Dementia Support Program
This program connects individuals living with dementia to services and support, helping them to self-manage and live well with the condition for as long as possible.
- Palliative care
Workforce development and the introduction of an end-of-life pathway under the Support at Home Program aim to improve palliative care services.
- Support for remote providers
Funding is being allocated to remote residential providers under the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program to ensure accessible care for older First Nations people.
Page updated 29 October 2024