From 1 November 2025 a new Aged Care Act will replace the laws that have governed the sector since 1997. The change follows years of inquiry, reform, and community concern about the state of care for older Australians. The new Act is designed to place people at the centre of the system and to ensure that aged care is safer, more consistent, and more accountable.
The legislation introduces a rights-based framework. Older Australians will have a clear Statement of Rights that providers must uphold. These rights cover respect, dignity, choice, and access to safe and high-quality services.
A new regulatory model will apply stronger obligations on aged care providers. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will have more authority to monitor and enforce compliance. This includes clearer standards, stronger penalties for breaches, and improved transparency.
The Act also launches the Support at Home program. This program will streamline existing home care services into one system. The goal is to reduce confusion for families, shorten waiting times, and make it easier to access the right level of support.
Cultural safety is another feature. The Act recognises the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and of people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Providers will be expected to deliver care that respects heritage, language, and community ties.
Whistleblower protections are strengthened to encourage staff and families to raise concerns without fear of retaliation. The new legislation expands the matters about which individuals may make disclosures and conditions have been brought in to protect individuals making said disclosures. It is a requirement that aged care providers have a whistleblower policy in place and ensure they have complaints and feedback mechanisms in place to ensure disclosures are captured.
Practical Benefits
Older Australians and their families will find it easier to understand their rights and to demand high standards of care. The single Support at Home program should reduce duplication and make services simpler to navigate.
For providers the rules will be clearer and more consistent. This creates an opportunity to build trust with residents and families. Stronger oversight is intended to lift standards across the sector and provide assurance to the public.
The focus on cultural safety and diversity should mean that people receive care that feels more personal and more aligned with their identity.
Challenges Ahead
The new Act sets ambitious expectations. Providers will need to invest in staff training, systems, and compliance processes. Many providers are already under financial pressure, and the transition may be difficult.
Workforce shortages remain a critical issue. New rights and standards cannot be met without enough trained staff to deliver day-to-day care. Rural and remote communities may face the greatest strain.
There is also a risk of confusion during the transition. Families and providers will need clear communication to understand how old programs are closing and new ones are opening.
Looking Forward
The introduction of the new Aged Care Act marks an important step toward a safer and more respectful system. It reflects the lessons of the Royal Commission and the strong demand from the community for reform. Success will depend on how well government, providers, staff, and families work together to bring the legislation to life.
For older Australians this moment represents hope for better care, stronger rights, and a more reliable support system in the years ahead.
If you need help navigating the requirements of the legislation or you would like to set up your own Speak Up Hotline, get in touch. We can help!
