The new Aged Care Act commenced on the 1st of November 2025. The Act is focused on putting older Australians first by strengthening rights, accountability and quality of care across the sector. At First Choice Care, our nurses and carers play a key role in supporting aged care providers through this transition, helping ensure residents continue to receive safe, respectful and person-centred care.
Strengthened Quality Standards
As part of the new Aged Care Act and regulatory model, the current Aged Care Quality Standards will be strengthened to ensure older Australians receive the highest standard of care.
Following the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety (2021), the Department of Health, Aged Care and Disability has undertaken a review of the Standards. The Royal Commission recommended that the revised Standards place greater emphasis on key areas that directly impact quality of life and safety, including:
- Food and nutrition
- Dementia care
- Diversity and inclusion
- Governance and leadership
- Clinical care
At
First Choice Care, we welcome these improvements and remain committed to supporting our nurses and carers in delivering person-centred, high-quality care in line with the evolving standards of the aged care sector.
Resources
Protection for Whistleblowers
Sharing concerns is essential to identifying issues or wrongdoing in aged care. Without this, problems may go unreported and unnoticed.
Education & Training for Workers
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission offers free and paid education to help you deliver safe, high-quality care. Find free resources via the link below.
Food, Nutrition & Dining
In aged care, your work makes a difference by supporting each person’s unique needs. Explore resources on food, nutrition, and dining to enrich their daily lives.
Code of Conduct for Aged Care Workers
Aged care workers play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing and dignity of older Australians. This Code outlines the expected behaviours that ensure people receiving aged care feel safe, respected, and supported at all times.
The 8 expected behaviours, listed below
1. Act with respect for people’s rights to freedom of expression, self-determination and decision-making in accordance with applicable laws and conventions.
2. Act in a way that treats people with dignity and respect and values their diversity.
3. Act with respect for the privacy of people.
4. Provide care, supports and services safely and competently, with care and skill.
5. Act with integrity, honesty and transparency.
6. Promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that may impact the quality and safety of care, support and services.
7. Provide care, supports and services free from: all forms of violence, discrimination, exploitation, neglect and abuse sexual misconduct.
8. Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to: all forms of violence, discrimination, exploitation, neglect and abuse sexual misconduct.
