The Australian Government has introduced significant reforms through the new Aged Care Act, which is set to come into effect on 1 July 2025. These changes are designed to improve the accessibility, safety, and quality for all older Australians, including those receiving in-home care, community services, and residential aged care.
With these changes directly impacting how services are delivered, it is important to separate fact from fiction, especially as misconceptions can cause unnecessary confusion or concern. Understanding some of the core details of the new Aged Care Act will allow you to navigate the upcoming changes with confidence and clarity, ensuring you are well-informed.
Key changes in the Aged Care Act
- Stronger consumer rights: The new Act introduces a Statement of Rights, ensuring you are treated with dignity and respect. You will have the right to make decision about your care and appoint someone you trust to support you in these decisions.
- Improved access to services: The Act is intended to simplify the aged care process with a single-entry system, making it easier for you to access the serviced you need. This system will also be culturally inclusive, meaning everyone, regardless of their background, will have equal access to aged care services.
- Greater safety and quality in care: The new Act strengthens the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s role, ensuring providers meet higher standards and are held accountable with harder penalties for non-compliance.
- Financial contributions and support: You may need to pay out-of-pocket for non-clinical care based on your means. However, there are hardship provisions available for those who are financially disadvantaged.
- Support for decision-making: You can appoint a supporter to assist with decision-making, ensuring you always have assistance in making informed choices about your care. This will enhance your ability to control the care you receive and make informed decisions.
Debunking common myths
While these changes are designed to improve the aged care system, we understand there may be some confusion or concerns. Let us address some common myths:
Myth 1: The new funding system means I will have to pay more for care.
Fact: While there will be means-tested contributions, these will be designed to ensure you are only asked to pay what is fair and affordable for you. Additionally, financial hardship provisions will help protect those who are less able to contribute.
Myth 2: There will be fewer services available after the new Act comes into effect
Fact: The new Act is designed to improve access to services, not reduce them. The Support at Home program (which will replace the current Home Care Packages program) offers a more flexible, tailored approach to ensure you receive the right support based on your needs.
Myth 3: If I report poor care quality, it will be traced back to me
Fact: Under the new Aged Care Act, there are stronger protections in place for people who report concerns about their care. Whistleblower protections ensure you can make reports about care quality without fear of retaliation or being identified. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is committed to investigating complaints in a confidential and impartial manner, safeguarding your privacy. Your right to raise concerns is respected.
Myth 4: Providers will not be held accountable under the new system
Fact: The new regulatory framework strengthens oversight and accountability for aged care providers. With harsher penalties for non-compliance and increased scrutiny from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, providers will be held to higher standards.
Myth 5: The new system will be difficult to navigate
Fact: The new single-entry system simplifies the process for accessing aged care services. This makes it easier for you to get the care you need, with clearer guidelines and a fairer, more accessible assessment process.
What you can do now
- Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the upcoming changes, and do not hesitate to ask questions about how they might affect you.
- Review your care needs: If you are currently receiving aged care services, take this opportunity to review your care plan and discuss any changes with your provider.
- Contact us: If you have any concerns or need assistance with understanding the new system, reach out to our office at KompleteCare on (08) 8265 5696. Our team is here to support you through this transition and ensure you continue to receive the best level of care.
The new Aged Care Act will bring positive changes that put you, the recipient, at the centre of the aged care system. With greater rights, better access to services, and stronger protections, these reforms are designed to ensure your needs are met with respect, dignity, and the highest level of support. At KompleteCare, we are committed to ensuring these changes benefit you and your loved ones, helping you continue to live independently and with the support you deserve.
*All information provided is sourced from the Australian Government and is correct at the time of publication. Information may change until the Support at Home Program commences on July 1st, 2025.
