Understanding the new Aged Care Act

Effective 1 November 2025, significant reforms and legislative changes came into effect for St Catherine’s and the broader aged care sector by way of the new Aged Care Act 2024.

These reforms are designed to strengthen the quality of care, enhance protections for older people, and ensure services are delivered with dignity, respect, and a genuine person-centred focus.

St Catherine’s will be assessed against the Seven (7) Standards of the new Act as part of our Registration Renewal (formerly Accreditation), which is due to be completed by 14 March 2026. These Standards are:

• Standard 1 – The Person
• Standard 2 – The Organisation
• Standard 3 – Care and Services
• Standard 4 – The Environment
• Standard 5 – Clinical care
• Standard 6 – Food and Nutrition
• Standard 7 – The Residential Community

A key component of the new reforms is the introduction of a Statement of Rights for all older Australians accessing government-funded aged care. This statement clearly outlines each person’s right to:

• Independence, autonomy, empowerment and choice
• Equitable access
• Quality and safe funded aged care services
• Respect for privacy and information
• Person-centred communication and ability to raise issues without reprisal
• Advocates, significant persons and connections

Another important aspect of the new Act is the introduction of an independent Complaints Commissioner, working alongside the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission. This role is designed to ensure transparency and accountability in the way complaints and feedback are addressed and resolved.

More information can be found on the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission website https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/understanding-new-aged-care-act

If any St Catherine’s residents or families have questions or concerns regarding these changes, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of our management team.