Empowering Older Australians: What the New Aged Care Act Means for You

At BallyCara, we are committed to ensuring all older Australians have voice, choice, and control over their care, receive the support they need, and are treated with dignity and respect.

This belief extends to everyone accessing aged care services, whether at home or in residential settings.

The Australian Government's Aged Care Bill, passed on 25 November 2024, marks a significant milestone in the aged care sector. The new Aged Care Act, set to take effect on 1 July 2025, places older people's rights at the heart of their aged care experience.

The Act introduces a modern, rights-based framework designed to improve aged care services. It emphasises the rights of older people, establishes a single-entry point with clear eligibility criteria, and implements a fair and culturally safe assessment framework. It enhances provider accountability with a revised regulatory model, strengthens oversight of aged care providers and workers, and supports the delivery of high-quality services across homes, community settings, and residential care.

For older Australians, the new Act brings empowerment and better awareness of their rights. They will have more control over their care, with the ability to appoint a supporter to uphold their decision-making principles. Revised eligibility criteria for aged care services will ensure resources focus on those who need them most. Special provisions will support First Nations people and those at risk of homelessness aged 50-64.
Residential care places will be allocated to individuals, improving choice and flexibility, while strengthened quality standards will clarify what older Australians can expect from providers and workers.

Providers and workers in the aged care sctor will have increased responsibilities. Providers will align their actions with a Statement of Rights and meet new registration, financial, and quality standards. Workers will benefit from expanded whistleblower protections and will be required to comply with revised screening requirements. The system will also promote innovation, continuous improvement, and high-quality care delivery.

The Support at Home Program will launch on 1 July 2025, replacing the Home Care Package Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme. The Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will transition no earlier than 1 July 2027. This reform aims to help older Australians live independently at home for longer by introducing a new classification system, capped pricing, assistive technology, restorative care pathways, and flexible care management options.

These reforms mark a transformative shift in aged care, ensuring a safer, fairer, and more inclusive system for older Australians. To learn more, visit the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission or the Department of Health and Aged Care websites. For details on the Support at Home Program, explore the Fact Sheet.

At BallyCara, we are here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can navigate these changes and continue to chamption care, dignity, and respect for all.