Understanding the Aged Care Act 2024

The Aged Care Act 2024, effective from 1 November 2025, brings significant changes to the way aged care is delivered in Australia. The Act is designed to create a stronger, fairer, and more transparent system that puts older people at the centre of decision-making.

Key Provider Obligations:

• Statement of Rights: You must embed and uphold the legislated rights of older people in all aspects of care.
• Governance & Accountability: Providers are required to meet stronger board and executive responsibilities, including clinical governance oversight.
• Workforce Capability: Ensure your staff have the skills, training, and support to deliver safe and high-quality care.
• Risk & Continuous Improvement: Maintain effective systems for identifying, managing, and reviewing risks and incidents, and support ongoing improvement.
• Information Management: Handle personal information, records, and data systems securely and lawfully.
• Single Assessment Process: Adapt your systems to integrate with the new streamlined entry and assessment framework.
• Associated Provider Oversight: Ensure all contractors and partners comply with obligations under the Act, including quality, safety, and conduct standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meet enhanced reporting, transparency, and quality assurance requirements.
• Quality Standards: Implement updated outcome-focused standards that prioritise safety, dignity, and wellbeing.
• Feedback & Complaints: Strengthen mechanisms for responding to consumer input and resolving issues, and uphold whistleblower protections.

Resources:

• https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2024A00104/asmade/text
• https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/guide-to-aged-care-law/overview/the-aged-care-rules

Understanding and complying with the Aged Care Act 2024 is essential for all Associated Providers. Suncare is here to support you in meeting these requirements.