Today marks the commencement of the new national Aged Care Quality Standards which apply to all aged care settings including residential and in-home aged care services.

Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner Janet Anderson PSM said the new standards raise the bar by strengthening the focus on consumer-centred care which respects the dignity and identity of the individual and seeks to improve their experiences and outcomes of care.

“The new standards require aged care providers to work with each of their consumers to ensure that they receive safe, quality care that is shaped by the consumer’s needs, goals and preferences,” she said.

“The new standards are an important step in aged care reform which will help providers to clarify their responsibilities and help consumers to know what they can expect from aged care services.

“The new standards were developed following extensive consultation with consumers, service providers, experts and the wider community.”

Ms Anderson said she was impressed by the commitment shown by aged care providers in their preparation for the introduction of the new standards, and that support from the Commission will continue after 1 July.

Read more:

Commission media release: New Aged Care Standards Aiming to Lift Performance Across the Sector