24/7 RN requirement in the MPSP
Work to support the introduction of the 24/7 RN in the MPSP is in its final stages.
From 1 July 2026, all multi-purpose services (MPS) are required to meet the 24/7 registered nurse responsibility.
A staged approach to implementation will support providers. Key dates include:
- 1 April 2026 – legislative amendments commence and further monitoring and analysis of any required exemptions
- 1 July 2026 – 24/7 registered nurse requirement starts under the Aged Care Act 2024
- 1 October 2026 – reporting obligations start in GPMS (October reporting to occur in November 2026).
From April 2026, MPSP providers may apply for an exemption from the 24/7 RN requirement under subsection 175(1) of the Aged Care Act 2024. Approved exemptions take effect from 1 July 2026 where eligibility criteria is met.
Additional resources are available to support providers before formal implementation, including Policy Guidelines and a Reporting User Guide.
Direct care targets in the MPSP
Work to inform the development of direct care targets for the MPSP is ongoing.
This work is exploring how to provide assurance residents in MPS have access to sufficient levels of direct care, noting the introduction of care minutes requirements in mainstream residential aged care.
The first involved Australian National Aged Care Classification (AN ACC) assessments in MPS to better understand resident acuity and potential direct care requirements. Sixteen MPS sites participated, with residents assessed using the existing AN ACC assessment process. Outcomes were shared with participating sites, and state and territory representatives.
The second involved a time-in motion study, with about 35 MPS participating. This work examined, through self reported data, how staff time is allocated between the health and aged care components within MPS.
Together, this work represents an important step in determining whether, and how, direct care obligations should be introduced in the MPSP. Further consideration and consultation will inform any future reforms.
For more information, please email mpsreforms@health.gov.au.
Jurisdictions involved
The following jurisictions are participating in this work:
- New South Wales
- Victoria
- South Australia
- Queensland
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
- Northern Territory
- Norfolk Island.
Questions and answers about the new reporting requirements
What is the timeline for implementation of the 24/7 RN responsibility?
Legislative changes will take effect from 1 April 2026. From that time, MPSP providers may apply for an exemption from the 24/7 RN requirement if eligible.
The 24/7 RN requirement will formally start from 1 July 2026. This requires providers to have an RN on site and on duty at all times.
Mandatory monthly reporting of 24/7 RN coverage will start from 1 October, with the first report due in November 2026.
What if my MPS cannot meet the requirement at all times?
MPSP providers are expected to plan for foreseeable staffing risks, including short-notice absences.
Where an MPSP provider is unable to meet the 24/7 RN requirement on an ongoing or regular basis, they may apply for an exemption, subject to eligibility criteria. Intermittent or short-term absences of an RN are expected to be recorded through the provider’s monthly 24/7 RN reporting.
Providers must demonstrate how residents’ clinical care needs continue to be met in the absence of an on site RN.
How will I report against the requirement?
From 1 October 2026, MPSP providers should begin recording 24/7 RN coverage for formal reporting purposes and commence mandatory monthly reporting.
The October report is due before 5pm, 7 November 2026. Providers will report using the Government Provider Management System (GPMS).
Is information on 24/7 RN coverage published?
Yes. You can access information on RN coverage through the 24/7 RN dashboard, which is published monthly for all aged care homes in Australia (see: Registered nurse coverage in residential aged care dashboard).