The role of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council (the Advisory Council) is to monitor and find any issues related to the work of the Commission, the Commissioner, and the Complaints Commissioner. It acts as an independent check on the authority of the Commission.
The Advisory Council is responsible for:
- identifying emerging risks
- making recommendations
- supporting the Commission in developing strategic objectives.
The Advisory Council is not part of the Commission. It communicates directly with the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors. In response to the Capability Review, the Advisory Council has been strengthened, having more independence and ability to make decisions.
The minister appoints council members on a part-time basis. They must have experience in relevant areas to make sure the Advisory Council has the right expertise. These areas cover a range of aspects of the aged care system, such as:
- geriatrics
- aged care service delivery
- adult education
- law
- quality management.
The Minister for Aged Care and Seniors can give the Advisory Council general written directions related to their functions and procedures for meetings. The Advisory Council must follow these directions.