When Mary turned 85 she never imagined she’d be navigating an entirely new aged care system.
The new Aged Care Act 2024 officially commenced on November 1, 2025, marking a significant transformation to aged care in Australian history. For Mary and approximately 1.4 million Australians who will benefit by 2035, this represents a fundamental shift in how the nation cares for its elderly.1
The reforms emerged from years of scrutiny following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The new Aged Care Act puts the rights of older people at the centre of the aged care system, with a rights-based approach that prioritises dignity, safety, and choice.2
Significantly, the Support at Home program has replaced the existing Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Program.3 This aims to help seniors like Mary remain in their own homes longer, rather than moving prematurely into residential facilities.
For those already receiving care, a “no worse off” provision ensures that clients already on a Home Care Package or in the national queue as of September 12, 2024, will not be financially disadvantaged by the changes.4 However, those entering the system after that date face means testing to determine their contributions.
Residential care has also transformed. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission now holds providers accountable with stronger care standards and better monitoring systems.5 Providers must register and meet rigorous expectations to receive government funding.
The single assessment process aims to make it simpler and fairer to determine what services people want and need, giving greater choice and control.6 For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and those experiencing homelessness, access begins at age 50 rather than 65.
While the reforms add complexity, with new contributions like the Hotelling Contribution and Non-Clinical Care Contribution, the underlying promise remains clear: Australian seniors deserve care that respects their autonomy, dignity, and individual needs. For Mary and her loved ones, that means peace of mind knowing the system is designed around her.
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1 https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act/about
2 https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act/about
3 https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/news-and-updates/big-changes-aged-care-sector
4 https://www.catholichealthcare.com.au/aged-care-reforms-explained