The Albanese Government is strengthening the aged care Star Rating system so Australians can be assured they are making the most informed choice.
The aged care Star Rating system, delivered by our Government, has been a game changer for older people and their families.
In December 2023 only 54 per cent of aged care homes had an Overall Star Rating of 4 or 5 stars (good or excellent) - today 79 per cent of homes do.
From 1 October 2025, aged care homes will need to meet both their legislated total care minutes and registered nurse minutes to receive 3 stars or more for their Staffing rating.
This change comes after a comprehensive and independent public consultation on Star Ratings system which gathered feedback from across the sector.
Today’s announcement will be reflected in each home’s Star Ratings from mid-2026 and will enhance the information available to older people, their families and carers to help them understand a home’s performance.
Strengthening the responsiveness of the Star Ratings system is a priority for the Albanese Government and has delivered measurable improvements to the standard of care provided to older Australians.
Star Ratings are published on the My Aged Care Find a provider tool to help older people compare and choose aged care homes.
Read more about Star Ratings and changes to the Staffing rating on the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing Website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae:
“Labor’s changes mean every older Australian and their loved ones will have even better information at their fingertips when making choices about the care they and their loved ones choose.
“We’ll always look for ways to improve the Star Ratings system to give older Australians the best information to age with dignity and in the comfort they deserve.
“These changes ensure aged care homes remain accountable for meeting their care minutes targets, so every resident can continue to get the care they need at the high standard they deserve.
“Thanks to Labor's reforms, there is now a registered nurse onsite in aged care more than 99% of the time – our strengthening Star Ratings system will help reflect how these improvements deliver better care to every older Australian.”