The Australian Government has released the final draft of the new Aged Care Rules, a key step in preparing the sector for major reforms set to begin this year.
These new Rules are intended to support aged care providers in delivering safe, high-quality care for older Australians under the upcoming Aged Care Act.
Scheduled to take effect, alongside the new Aged Care Act on November 1, 2025, the Rules have been shaped by a lengthy consultation process that included seven draft versions and more than 400 submissions from a wide range of contributors—aged care providers, health professionals, carers, advocacy organisations, and older Australians themselves
The Rules define how care should be delivered across the sector, covering areas such as residential care, Home Support Packages, workforce screening, vaccinations, and financial responsibilities. They also serve as the operational detail to support the new Aged Care Act.
By releasing the Rules well ahead of the Act’s commencement, the government aims to give providers sufficient time to adapt their systems, train staff, and prepare for the new requirements.
Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae said the release of the Rules marked a “meaningful step towards a new rights-based Aged Care Act that delivers the dignified care older Australians deserve.”
“We’re getting on with the job of delivering generational change to make sure every older Australian can live with the best care, dignity and support,” he said.
“We’ve released the Rules 3 months before the new Act comes into force, giving providers time to implement new systems and processes, and train workers to deliver the best care to our loved ones.”
The publication of the final Rules follows the government’s decision earlier this year to delay the rollout of the new Aged Care Act.
Originally scheduled to begin on July 1, 2025, the start date was pushed back to November 1, 2025, following advice from sector experts and stakeholders, who said additional preparation time would improve implementation and reduce disruption.
In a statement, the Government emphasised that the delay will give aged care providers crucial breathing room to ready their systems, train staff, and engage with clients about the upcoming changes. It also allows more time for finalising the operational and digital infrastructure necessary for the Act’s implementation, as well as the passage of supporting legislation in Parliament.
While some were initially eager for the July launch, key advocacy groups welcomed the delay as a pragmatic move.
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