On 1 November 2025, the new Aged Care Act comes into effect. It is the most significant reform the sector has seen in decades, shifting the focus towards a rights based framework that prioritises older Australians while demanding greater accountability from providers. It was originally scheduled to commence on 1 July, but a strategic delay was introduced to allow both providers and facilities adequate time to prepare, ensuring the focus is on sustainability rather than just compliance. The reform follows findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety , which made it clear that the existing framework was no longer fit for purpose. The new Act has been designed to address these shortcomings and create a system that is easier to navigate, fairer for individuals, and more robust in its regulation of providers. A Clearer Framework for Rights and Responsibilities At the heart of the new Act is the recognition of the rights of people accessing aged care. From 1 November, providers will need to show not only that they are delivering safe and effective care but also that they are respecting the autonomy, dignity, and choices of those in their care. This is a cultural shift. Care models and organisational practices will need to be examined to ensure they support decision making, provide culturally safe experiences, and uphold fairness and transparency. For providers, this means embedding these principles into every layer of the organisation from governance and leadership through to the frontline delivery of care. The Regulatory Shift The new Act also reshapes the role of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission . The Commission will have broader and more proactive powers, enabling stronger supervision and quicker intervention when issues arise. For providers, this translates into: A clearer and more comprehensive set of obligations Greater scrutiny of governance and risk management practices Increased expectations around compliance systems and documentation Those who take a reactive approach are likely to feel the pressure of this change. Those who act early to align with the new framework will be better positioned to operate confidently in the new environment. The Workforce Challenge One of the most immediate impacts for providers will be on their workforce. The Act creates obligations that cannot be met without well trained and values driven teams. Frontline staff will need to understand new approaches to decision making, cultural safety, and consumer rights. This means investment in training, but it also means ensuring the right people are in the right roles. Providers will need strong recruitment and retention strategies to build capability and stability within their teams. Without this, the gap between legislative expectations and service delivery could quickly widen. As a healthcare recruitment agency working with providers across Australia, Curamoir sees this as the critical area where support is needed most. Workforce readiness will determine how successfully providers can navigate the change. Recruiting professionals who not only have the skills but also align with the values of rights based care will be central to long term success. Operational and Financial Impacts Beyond workforce, providers will also face operational changes. The introduction of a single entry system and a streamlined assessment process should improve access for older Australians, but it will require providers to adapt their systems and workflows. There will also be new reporting requirements, which means governance frameworks must be reviewed and updated. Many providers will need to invest in technology, compliance processes, and internal capability to meet these standards. Financially, the sector may feel short term strain as these changes are implemented. However, the reforms also create opportunities to improve efficiency, build trust with consumers, and strengthen long term sustainability. What Providers Should Do Now With the Act going live on 1 November, the next few weeks are critical. Providers should be: Reviewing compliance frameworks against the new obligations. Engaging boards and leadership teams to ensure they understand their responsibilities. Strengthening governance and risk management processes. Investing in workforce training focused on rights based care, cultural safety, and decision making. Reviewing recruitment and retention strategies to secure the workforce needed to meet higher expectations. Communicating proactively with residents, families, community nursing clients, and staff to explain what the changes mean. Preparation now will help providers avoid disruption and move into the new era with confidence. Looking Ahead The introduction of the new Aged Care Act represents a reset for the sector. It is not just about compliance but about embracing a new culture of care that puts rights at the centre, demands accountability, and rewards quality. Providers who act early and invest in people, governance, and systems will be the ones who lead in aged care. At Curamoir, we see this reform as an opportunity to raise standards across the country and we are committed to supporting providers in building strong, capable teams that can deliver under the new framework. If your organisation is preparing for the new Aged Care Act and you need support with workforce planning, recruitment, or building capability within your teams, Curamoir can help . Our consultants work with aged care providers across Australia to source professionals who can deliver high quality care in line with the new expectations. Get in touch with Curamoir today to discuss how we can support your organisation in this next chapter for aged care.
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