The new Aged Care Act came into effect on 1 November 2025, shifting Australia’s aged care system from a provider-driven model to one focused on the rights of older Australians.

At the heart of the new Act is a Statement of Rights, which is now legally enforceable, giving Australians accessing government-funded aged care services guaranteed rights to “dignity, autonomy, privacy, and safe, high-quality care”.

These rights include the ability to make decisions about their own lives, receive culturally respectful services, and raise concerns without fear of reprisal. The previous voluntary Charter of Aged Care Rights has been replaced with obligations that providers must embed into policies, staff training, and everyday practice.

The Act introduces strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, requiring providers to actively involve older people in planning and managing their care. A new supported decision-making model allows individuals to appoint registered supporters to help them understand options and communicate choices. Whistleblower protections have been expanded, ensuring that anyone can report poor care without risk of retaliation.

A new fee framework also aims to simplify charges and improve transparency. While clinical care remains fully government-funded, wealthier users will contribute more toward non-clinical costs.

All providers must register with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, meet enhanced prudential standards, and comply with a risk-based regulatory framework. Greater transparency measures, including public reporting of performance and star ratings, aim to empower consumers and hold providers accountable.

In addition, the Support at Home program is a $4.3 billion initiative to streamline home care services and help older Australians remain independent and living in their own places for longer.