Regional, rural and remote aged care policy framework and workplan

About the framework and workplan

We are developing a draft RRR aged care policy framework and workplan.

The aim of these documents will be to help improve and address the unique challenges associated with aged care service delivery in regional, rural and remote Australia. They will provide improved transparency regarding where the Australian Government is intervening to support aged care service delivery in these areas.

This work will complement the review of the Modified Monash Model (MMM), the remoteness classification system for aged care, which is currently underway.

Why this is important

More than 1 in 3 older Australians live in regional, rural or remote communities, where fewer aged care services are available than in major cities.

We understand that older people want access to the care they need wherever they live, so they can stay close to their loved ones and communities for as long as possible. We also recognise the significant challenges facing aged care providers regional, rural or remote areas.

Goals of the framework and workplan

The RRR aged care policy framework and workplan will seek to ensure that support for aged care delivery in non-metropolitan areas is appropriately targeted, responsive and delivers value for money.

The framework and workplan will have clear deliverables, priorities and timeframes. We want it to include practical steps to improve access to safe and quality aged care. This may include steps toward the delivery of larger reforms like regulatory harmonisation and integrated care solutions. However, we also aim to use the workplan as a vehicle to prioritise smaller work packages that can deliver for regional, rural and remote communities.

It will also seek to align with and cross-reference relevant disability and health frameworks, where appropriate, to help inform any opportunities for innovation and shared solutions.

How we are undertaking this work

We are developing a draft framework and workplan based on initial consultations undertaken and feedback already obtained as part of the review of the Modified Monash Model (MMM).

Draft documents will be made available for public consultation in 2025–26, with a draft framework expected to be released first.

Following the consultation period, a final report and workplan will be developed and published in 2026. The consultation will ensure the final framework is evidence-based, up to date and considers diverse external perspectives and feedback.

What we have done so far

We have completed a preliminary stocktake of thin market initiatives and supports available to regional, rural and remote providers. This provided a picture of the extent of Government investment in aged care service delivery in regional, rural and remote Australia.

We now need to consult with the community and consider the outcomes achieved to date and the best value future investments and solutions.