The Albanese Government is delivering once-in-a-generation reforms to aged care to build a high-quality, respectful and sustainable system that puts older Australians at the centre of their care, now and into the future.
We have been clear that we want to successfully deliver these reforms in the right way.
We have received advice from the sector and experts that more time will improve the delivery of these reforms and minimise disruption.
Following careful consideration, the Government will recommend to the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, that she proclaim the commencement of the new Aged Care Act to be 1 November 2025.
This will allow more time for aged care providers to prepare their clients, support their workers and get their systems ready for the changes. It will also give us more time to finalise key operational and digital processes, and for Parliament to consider supporting legislation that will enable the new Act to operate effectively.
The new Act is transforming aged care laws to put the rights of older people first. It includes, for the first time, a Statement of Rights for older people and a Statement of Principles to guide how providers and workers must behave and make decisions.
The Support at Home program, which supports older people to remain healthy, active and socially connected to their community, will commence with the new Act.
Until then, the Commonwealth Home Support Program, Short-Term Restorative Care Program and Home Care Packages Program will continue to support older Australians who wish to continue living at home.
The new Act is the next step in the Albanese Government’s ambitious plan to reform aged care. It follows the introduction of Star Ratings, more direct care for over 250,000 older people in aged care homes, 24/7 nursing in aged care homes, higher wages for aged care workers, a new single assessment system, more transparency on provider finances and operations and higher standards for people working in the aged care sector.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“The Albanese Government has made no secret of the fact that this is an incredibly ambitious reform.
“These are once-in-a-generation reforms, which put older Australians at the centre of aged care.
“We want to make sure that all operational, digital and legislative pieces are in place before the rollout starts.
“This brief deferral allows providers to train their staff and have conversations with their clients, get their IT systems ready and prepare operations for an orderly transition.
Quotes attributable to Minister Rae:
“I have spent my first weeks as Minister for Aged Care and Seniors listening to older Australians and stakeholders who have generously shared with me both the importance of the new Aged Care Act, and the importance of getting it right.
“This is about ensuring the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home is ready for older Australians and their families.
“We have already achieved so much in partnership with older people, providers, workers and the sector.
“This brief deferral will allow more time to bed down key changes to reduce aged care assessment times, in line with community expectations.
“We will continue to work hand-in-hand with older Australians, the sector and the Taskforce to make sure the benefits of these once-in-a-generation reforms are realised.”
Open letters from Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae MP
Media event date:
Date published:
Media type:
Media release
Audience:
General public
Minister: