Changes are coming for Australia’s aged care system. Here’s what we know so far.
Australia’s subsidised aged care services are set for a major overhaul as the government prepares to rewrite the 1997 Aged Care Act. The new act, expected to commence on July 1, 2024, aims to address the evolving needs of older Australians and simplify the existing patchwork of legislation. While initial drafts of the act have been released for public consultation, key details like fees, payments, and subsidies, as well as prioritization and allocation of aged care places, remain unspecified. The act also attempts to navigate constitutional limitations that prevent the federal government from enacting specific laws for aged care. The final act will be subject to approval by the Federal Parliament.
The proposed reforms promise several improvements in the aged care system. They include the establishment of a complaints commissioner to enhance independence and transparency in investigating complaints, increased whistleblower protections for older people and aged care workers, and a streamlined access process through a single assessment. However, concerns persist about the complexity of the proposed legislative framework and the lack of clarity regarding rules governing the system’s operation.
The new act aligns with recent changes in the aged care landscape, such as the introduction of residential care workforce standards, which mandate round-the-clock registered nurse coverage and specific care minutes for residents. Additionally, Star Ratings for individual aged care homes will be incorporated, offering residents insights into the quality of care provided.
The ongoing reform journey does not conclude with the new act. The government plans to update payment arrangements for care based on recommendations from the forthcoming Aged Care Task Force report. It also intends to introduce the Support at Home program, consolidating home care packages, short-term restorative care, and respite care. However, this program’s proposed start date of July 1, 2025, has been postponed multiple times in recent years.
Creating a modern and simplified aged care act presents a crucial opportunity to establish an enduring legislative regime that prioritizes the well-being of older Australians. Balancing the central focus on older people with sustainability and robustness is paramount. With less than five months remaining until the new act comes into effect, the delicate task of finalizing the details must be approached diligently and with a sense of urgency.
These upcoming changes hold significant implications for Australia’s aged care system. As various stakeholders engage in consultation and decision-making processes, it is essential to address the needs and concerns of older Australians while ensuring a resilient and accessible care system for all.
