New Aged Care Act

The Aged Care Quality Standards are a set of requirements that define what good care looks like and reflect the quality-of-care older people should expect. The current seven standards are:

• Standard 1: The individual 
• Standard 2: The organisation 
• Standard 3: The care and services 
• Standard 4: The environment 
• Standard 5: Clinical care 
• Standard 6: Food and nutrition 
• Standard 7: The residential community 

The new Act introduces a Statement of Rights that outlines the entitlements of older people when accessing aged care services. This Statement of Rights will replace the current Charter of Rights, providing a clearer and more comprehensive framework to protect the interests and dignity of older Australians. 

Key Rights Included in the Statement 

The Statement of Rights ensures that every individual receiving aged care has the following rights: 

• Independence, autonomy, empowerment, and freedom of choice 

• Equitable access to services 

• Quality and safe funded aged care services 

• Respect for privacy and information 

• Person-centred communication and the ability to raise issues without reprisal 

• Support from advocates, significant persons, and social connections 

For a plain language summary of the new Statement of Rights, click here.  

In Australia, the amount you pay for your aged care depends on your personal and financial circumstances. The Government funds most aged care services, but those who can afford to contribute to the cost of their care are required to do so according to their assessed means. 

If you entered permanent residential aged care before 1 November 2025, there will be no changes to your fees. 

For older people who enter permanent care after 1 November 2025, fees and charges will vary depending on your personal circumstances. 

Older people now have the option to nominate and register a ‘Supporter’. Registered Supporters can help residents understand, make, and communicate decisions about their care. This is intended to ensure older people can make their own decisions, and maintain control over their own lives, for longer. For more information, click here. 

A Registered Supporter is a trusted person selected by the resident to assist with decision-making about their care. This individual may be a family member, a friend, or another person who holds significance in the resident’s life. To become a Registered Supporter, the chosen person must be formally nominated and registered according to the proper procedures. This ensures that the resident’s wishes are respected and that the supporter is appropriately recognised within the care setting. 

The new Aged Care Act makes it easier for people to come forward with concerns about misconduct or harm, and to ensure they’re protected when they do. From 1 November 2025, residents, family and anyone of significance to a resident can make a disclosure as a whistleblower. These disclosures can also be made to a wide group of people. For more information click here..