Aged Care Challenges Ahead ...

Following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (Royal Commission), the Australian Government has introduced a range of changes across the aged care system designed to improve the care of older Australians. Many changes are now in force. 

Some key changes to date have included:  

• A new Aged Care Code of Conduct.  

• Increased requirements for the governing bodies of aged care providers.  

• Publicly available ‘Star Ratings’ for aged care providers.  

• Registered nurses in every aged care residential home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,

• unless an exemption applies. 

• An increased say for residents, clients and representatives via Consumer Advisory Bodies and Quality Care Advisory Bodies 

• Increased mandatory reporting by providers 

• 200 care minutes per resident per day. In smaller homes, the number of care minutes is reduced.   

Further changes are expected, including 215 care minutes per resident per day from October 2024, strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, a new Aged Care Act and the replacement of home care packages and short-term restorative care program with the Support at Home program from 1 July 2025. 

We continue to monitor the aged care reform agenda closely and prepared for the changes as and when they arise.   

Seeking financial advice in this ever-evolving area is essential to obtain the best financial outcomes.