4 The government is introducing a completely new framework under the Aged Care Act 2024, replacing the 1997 legislation. This reform is the result of years of scrutiny, including findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which highlighted serious failings in the current system. The changes are big, and they signal a clear shift toward putting the needs and rights of older Australians first. At the core of the new Act is a Statement of Rights. This formal document guarantees that people receiving aged care - whether at home or in a residential facility - are treated with dignity, are involved in decisions about their care, and have access to services that respect their choices, culture, and identity. Importantly, there will be tougher regulation and stronger oversight of aged care providers. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission will be given more authority to ensure compliance and take action when standards aren't met. Whistleblowers will also receive better protection, helping to shine a light on poor practices without fear of retaliation. A major feature of the reform is the new Support at Home program, which will replace the current Home Care Packages, Short-Term Restorative Care, and several other services. This simplified system will offer eight levels of funding - ranging from $11,000 to $78,000 per year - tailored to your care needs. Services will fall into three categories: Clinical care – Government-funded nursing and allied health services. Independence support – Help with tasks such as showering, mobility, or taking medication. Everyday living services – Domestic assistance like cleaning, gardening, and meal preparation. There will also be dedicated funding for restorative care (up to $6,000) and end-of-life support at home (up to $25,000), providing greater flexibility for short-term or palliative needs. What Will It Cost? How much you’ll pay will depend on your financial situation. Full pensioners will see relatively modest fees: 5% for independence support and 17.5% for everyday services. Self-funded retirees, however, will contribute significantly more - up to 80% of costs for independence support and 50% for everyday services. A lifetime cap of $130,000 will apply to non-clinical care costs, ensuring costs don’t spiral indefinitely. It’s worth noting that clinical services will remain fully government-funded for everyone, regardless of income. Changes to Residential Aged Care For those moving into residential aged care after 1 July 2025, there will be a new means-tested “hotelling” supplement, which covers your accommodation, meals, and general living costs. Providers will also have more flexibility in setting room prices, with increased transparency requirements to help you make informed choices. If you’re already living in a residential aged care facility before the transition date, your current pricing arrangements will remain unchanged. A Time to Prepare For many over 50, these reforms are both a reassurance and a wake-up call. On one hand, they promise more personalised, respectful care and clearer rights. On the other, they highlight the importance of planning ahead - financially and personally - for your later years. The reforms are designed to give older Australians more control, more support to stay at home for longer, and more clarity around what to expect from care providers. But with greater transparency comes the need to understand your entitlements, your financial responsibilities, and how to access the care that suits your lifestyle and values. There are concerns among providers about the tight timeline and the complexity of transitioning to a new system. Calls have been made to delay implementation to ensure smooth delivery. Whether the July 2025 deadline holds or shifts, the direction is clear: aged care in Australia is evolving. For those of us entering the next chapter of life, this is a chance to ensure we do so with confidence, clarity, and care that reflects who we are and what we deserve. More information can be found at www.myagedcare.gov.au Aged Care Is Changing – Here’s What You Need to Know... Major changes are coming to Australia’s aged care system from 1 July 2025, and if you’re over 50, these reforms matter to you - whether you’re thinking ahead to your own future care or helping a loved one navigate the system.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjM5MTE=