The Australian Government has announced a four-month postponement in the commencement of the new Aged Care Act and its key component, the Support at Home program, pushing the start date from 1 July 2025 to 1 November 2025. This delay aims to give aged care providers, staff, and client additional time to prepare for a smoother and more effective transition to the updated system.
The story so far
The new Aged Care Act marks a significant shift in government-funded aged care, moving the focus firmly onto the rights and individual needs of older Australians. It introduces a comprehensive Statement of Rights and Principles designed to ensure care is personalised, respected, and centred on the person receiving it.
A cornerstone of the reforms is the introduction of the Support at Home program, which will replace the existing home care models with a simplified framework divided into three main areas:
- Clinical care: Nursing, physiotherapy, and other health-related services
- Independent living: Personal care, respite, transport, and social support
- Everyday living: Cleaning, gardening, meal preparation, and home modifications
Under this model, clinical services will be fully covered by the government, while recipients will contribute a portion of the costs for Independent Living and Everyday Living services, reflecting a balance between accessibility and shared responsibility.
Reasons for the delay
The government’s decision to defer the rollout follows extensive feedback from aged care providers and advocacy groups. Concerns pinpointed the need for additional time to adequately train staff, implement new systems, inform clients and families, as well as finalise legislative and operational details.
Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae, emphasised the delay is about ‘getting it right’ – ensuring quality care is maintained and all stakeholders are adequately prepared for the transition.
‘This is about ensuring the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home is ready for older Australians and their families,’ says Minister Rae.
‘We will continue to work hand-in-hand with older Australians, the sector, and the Taskforce to make sure the benefits of these once-in-a-generation reforms are realised.’
Impact on clients
For older Australians currently receiving home care support, there will be no immediate changes. Existing care arrangements will continue until the new program commences in November. The delay offers clients and their families extra time to understand upcoming changes and plan accordingly.
‘We want to make sure that all operational, digital, and legislative pieces are in place before the rollout starts, says Minister for Health and Aging, Mark Butler.
‘This brief deferral allows providers to train their staff and have conversations with their clients, get their IT systems ready, and prepare for an orderly transition’.
The Government has also assured no one will be financially worse off under the new system if they were eligible or receiving packages before the cut-off date of 12 September 2024.
Sector reactions and challenges
While many providers and advocacy groups have welcomed the delay as a cautious and necessary step to avoid rushed implementation, frustrations persist. Nearly 83,000 people remain on the waitlist for home care packages, highlighting ongoing pressures within the system.
Critics also point to concerns about funding adequacy, the affordability of user contributions, and the financial risks facing vulnerable seniors. Experts warn that proposed caps on unspent monies and limited palliative care funding may jeopardise continuity of care, calling for further refinements ahead of the program’s launch.
If you require immediate assistance while waiting for funding, consider our Priority Care Packages for a tailored, fast-tracked service.
Preparing for the future
The government continues to consult with the sector and expects to introduce amendments to the Aged Care Rules prior to the November start date. In the meantime, existing programs, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, will remain operational.
Families and carers are encouraged to explore options early and seek advice if they are unsure about how the changes may affect them. Free services, like Aged Care Decisions, can help navigate provider choices and care arrangements during this transition period.
As the sector prepares for the revised implementation date of 1 November 2025, attention remains firm on ensuring the changes deliver a more robust, equitable, and person-centred aged care system. The additional time provides a critical opportunity to strengthen readiness, address operational challenges, and refine policy details.
At KompleteCare, we understand navigating these changes can be overwhelming. Our team is committed to providing a personalised, person-centred approach, helping you and your loved ones confidently prepare for these changes. If you have any questions regarding the new Aged Care Act, we are here to guide you every step of the way. For more information, contact our friendly team today on (08) 8265 5696 or submit an enquiry form via our website.
