Aged Care Act Delayed: What the New November 2025 Rollout Means for Providers and Clients
The Australian Government has officially delayed the rollout of the new Aged Care Act from 1 July 2025 to 1 November 2025. This four-month extension is intended to give aged care providers, workers, and sector stakeholders additional time to prepare for one of the most significant overhauls in aged care legislation to date.
📜 Background of the Aged Care Act
The Aged Care Act 2024 is a response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. It aims to overhaul outdated systems and place older Australians’ rights at the center of aged care services.
Key features of the Act include:
📖 A Statement of Rights for older people receiving aged care
🧭 A single entry point with clearer eligibility
🔍 A fair, culturally safe assessment model
✅ Tougher oversight and regulatory control
🏥 Increased provider accountability and transparency
This reform is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a compassionate, person-centred care system.
⏳ Why the Delay?
The government’s decision to push back the implementation date came after strong feedback from the sector that more time was needed to prepare.
🗣 Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler acknowledged the complexity of the reforms and the need for more time to ensure operational, digital, and legislative systems are ready.
🧩 Tom Symondson, CEO of Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA), supported the move, highlighting the scale of change providers are facing.
🙏 Catholic Health Australia also welcomed the decision, noting the extra time would allow for smoother implementation and help reduce disruptions for older Australians.
🧠 What This Means for Providers
This delay gives providers a critical window to:
🛠 Understand the new framework and update policies and procedures
👩🏫 Train staff on new rights-based standards and assessments
💻 Upgrade tech systems to meet new data and regulatory requirements
📣 Engage with clients and families to inform them of what’s changing
It’s an opportunity to lay strong foundations—not just for compliance, but for quality and dignity in care.
👵 What This Means for Older Australians
For care recipients and their families, the delay means:
🧘♀️ A less rushed transition to a new system
🤝 More time for consultation, understanding, and empowerment
💬 Clearer communication around rights and entitlements
Ultimately, it aims to reduce confusion and improve outcomes by making sure everyone is ready.
✅ Looking Ahead
The new implementation date of 1 November 2025 marks a significant milestone on the journey to a more respectful, transparent, and person-centred aged care system.
While delays can be frustrating, this one is being seen as a necessary step to do things right—with quality, safety, and dignity at the forefront.
📌 For more information, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care’s official website.
