Aged Care Reforms & Updates.
Understanding what’s changing and how it supports you.
Australia’s aged care system underwent significant changes to make services fairer, easier to navigate, and more centred on the needs and rights of seniors.
At Cura, we know that change can feel overwhelming. Our role is to continue to help you understand what’s happening and how it may affect your care – simply, calmly, and with your wellbeing at the heart of each conversation.
A New Direction For Aged Care.
On 1 November 2025, the new Aged Care Act 2024 came into effect, marking one of the most substantial updates to aged care in decades.
These reforms placed a stronger emphasis on:
- Your rights
- Quality and safety
- Transparency and fairness
The new Aged Care Act 2024 has been implemented to ensure that every senior receives care that is respectful, dignified, and tailored to their individual needs.
Key Changes You Should Know About.
A Rights‑Focused Approach.
The new Act aims to strengthen your rights and protections.
This means:
- Your rights are clearly defined
- Providers must meet higher care standards
- There are improved pathways for feedback and complaints
- Your care is now shaped around your needs, not the system
The New Support At Home Program.
A major part of the aged care reform is the new Support at Home program.
This replaced:
- Home Care Packages (HCP), and
- Short‑Term Restorative Care
This new model made in-home support simpler and more flexible for participants
A Streamlined Assessment Process.
A single, more unified assessment system was introduced to reduce confusion for people seeking government funded support.
This means:
- One assessment to access the right level of care for your needs
- Less duplication
- A clearer understanding of your needs from the beginning
Clearer Fees.
The aged care reforms make costs easier to understand and more consistent for participants.
Recent updates include:
- Greater transparency around fees
- Price caps to protect consumers
- Contributions based on your financial situation
Clinical Support (such as nursing) remains government funded, and from 1 October 2026, all Personal Care will also be fully government funded. Some Everyday Living or Independence Supports may still include a contribution depending on your circumstances
Higher Standards & Stronger Oversight.
To ensure safe, high-quality care at home.
The Support at Home system includes:
- More rigorous quality standards
- Increased monitoring of providers
- Stronger regulatory powers
This helps ensure services remain safe, reliable, and accountable
What The New Aged Care Act 2024 Reforms Mean for You.
The updated system is designed to:
Help you stay independent at home for longer
Make aged care easier to understand
Ensure your care reflects your needs and preferences
Give you confidence in the support you receive
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) – Future Transition to Support at Home.
CHSP will continue for now, but it is planned to transition into the Support at Home program no earlier than 01 July 2027. When the time comes, our team and your Cura Care Partner will guide you through each stage, so you always know what to expect.
How Cura Supports You Through These Changes.
You don’t need to navigate changes on your own. At Cura, our team are here to:
- Explain how any changes apply to your personal situation
- Help you understand your funding and service options
- Support you through assessments and transitions
- Provide consistent, culturally sensitive care throughout
No matter how the Aged Care system evolves, our commitment to you remains the same. If you’re unsure how these updates affect you or someone you care for, we’re here to help.