30 November 2024
We are pleased to share that the Australian Government has passed the new Aged Care Act, with implementation beginning on 1 July 2025. This landmark reform represents a major step in reshaping aged care in Australia, addressing key recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety to build a more person-centred and sustainable system.
Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells, has described the new Aged Care Act as a “once-in-a-generation” reform that will ensure the viability and quality of aged care in Australia. Central to the Act is a rights-based framework, placing older Australians at the heart of the system. The introduction of a Statement of Rights will empower decision-making and prioritise the needs of those in care. Other key reforms include strengthened Quality Standards, the launch of the Support at Home program to enable older Australians to live independently for longer, and improved protections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other vulnerable groups.
At Southern Cross Care Queensland, we welcome this reform as an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to delivering high-quality care. Jason Eldering, CEO, said: “These changes will not alter the fundamentals of how we care or deliver services.
Our guiding principles of Known & Loved will help us navigate this change, ensuring we continue to make a meaningful difference to those we serve.”
To ensure we are well-prepared for these changes, our dedicated project team is working on a structured implementation plan. This includes three focus streams:
We will continue to provide updates as we work towards this important transition and remain committed to supporting our residents and clients through this new era of aged care.