Introducing the Aged Care Bill
The Australian Government introduced the Aged Care Bill 2024 to Parliament on 12 September 2024.
The Bill is for a new Aged Care Act - the main law that sets out how the aged care system operates. Importantly, it will put the rights of older people first.
The new rights-based law aims to improve the lives of older people who access aged care services in their homes, communities and residential aged care homes.
The Bill will make sure older people are treated with respect and have the quality of life they deserve. It also aims to encourage aged care providers to deliver high-quality care.
Consultation on the draft law
We've conducted several public consultations on the key reforms that make up the new law.
We've also held 2 consultations that focused on the Act itself. These saw almost 14,500 points of engagement across workshops, webinars and roundtables, and around 450 submissions and 1,100 surveys received.
The extensive and valuable feedback we've received has informed the Bill. Thank you to everyone who has shared their views in these consultations.
Next steps
The Bill has been referred to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee for inquiry and report. During this time, we'll ask for your feedback on some of the rules that will sit under the new law.
The new Aged Care Act is expected to commence from 1 July 2025, with the new Support at Home program.
More information
To read the Minister for Aged Care's media release, the Bill or the department's plain language or Easy Read Bill overview fact sheet, visit New Aged Care Act.
Let's change aged care, together
Every Australian should feel confident about accessing high quality and safe aged care, when and where they need it.
The changes mean Older people will have greater choice and control, services that respect and meet their needs, and support to stay independent as they age.
To find out more and help design the changes, visit the Get Involved page or call 1800 318 209.