Government orders review of controversial aged-care assessment system

Older Australians who believe their home-care needs have been underestimated are being urged to speak up as the Federal Government orders an independent review of its controversial assessment system.

The Albanese Government has ordered an independent review of the Integrated Assessment Tool, which helps determine the level and priority of government-funded aged care support older Australians receive.

The announcement follows months of criticism from health professionals, aged-care providers and families who say the system can underestimate the needs of vulnerable older people.

Concerns have been raised about people living with dementia, those with complex medical conditions and older Australians who rely heavily on unpaid family carers.

At the centre of the controversy is whether a computer-based assessment system can adequately reflect someone’s circumstances and the support they need to remain independent.

For families, an incorrect assessment can mean additional weeks or months waiting for assistance, with relatives left to fill the gaps.

Aged Care Minister Sam Rae announced the independent, clinically informed review on Thursday, saying it would examine how the system classifies people’s needs and prioritises support.

The findings will be published and tabled in Parliament in the first half of 2027.

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has welcomed the announcement, while calling for greater human oversight of assessment decisions.

“Older people deserve confidence that they can access the right level of care they need, when they need it,” OPAN CEO Craig Gear said.

The Government has already made adjustments to the system, and a new escalation pathway is planned from January 2027 for people facing exceptional circumstances.

However, the review does not automatically change existing care arrangements.

What if your assessment is wrong?

Older Australians who disagree with their assessment can request a free internal review by writing to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing within 28 days of receiving their decision.

Requests can be emailed to [email protected].

If care needs have changed since the assessment, a support plan review or reassessment may also be appropriate.

For advice, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or the Older Persons Advocacy Network on 1800 700 600.