Australia’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs updated its Aged Care Act and has issued new supporting information. There may be some ideas we could glean and put to use in Massachusetts.
Summary of The Aged Care Act 2024 from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
The Aged Care Act 2024, effective from 1 November 2025, introduces a rights-based framework placing older people at the centre of aged care services. It replaces the outdated 1997 Act, focusing on the rights and needs of older Australians rather than just funding providers.
For detailed information, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Aged Care Act 2024 page.
Key Points:
- Impact on DVA Services: The new Act does not affect existing DVA programs like Veterans’ Home Care and Community Nursing, which will continue unchanged.
- Features of the New Act:
- Establishes a single entry point with clear eligibility.
- Introduces a fair, culturally safe assessment framework.
- Enhances system oversight, accountability, and strengthens the aged care regulator.
- Emphasizes safety and trauma-aware care, especially for veterans.
- Statement of Rights: Ensures older people’s rights are central, with resources available in multiple languages and Easy Read formats.
- Quality Standards: Strengthened to ensure care meets individual needs, preferences, and supports older people to live well.
- Complaints and Whistleblower Protections:
- Encourages feedback and complaints with protections against retaliation.
- Complaints can be made to the Complaints Commissioner, Department of Health, or advocacy services like the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN).
- Whistleblower protections safeguard those reporting breaches.
- Supported Decision-Making: Older people are presumed capable of making decisions, with options to appoint Registered Supporters to assist in aged care decisions.
- Funding Model: Government funds most aged care services; individuals may contribute based on means testing. Updated fees apply from 1 November 2025.
- Support at Home Program: Replaces previous home care programs, offering services like clinical support, personal care, respite, and home modifications to help older people stay active and connected.
- Accessing Aged Care: Various government and independent services assist older people and families in navigating aged care options. More information is available on the My Aged Care Getting Support page.