The Australian Government has taken another significant step along the path of generational aged care reform, with the new Aged Care Rules now finalised.
Marking another step in the legislative process before the new Aged Care Act 2024 starts from 1 November 2025, the Rules provide essential detail on how the new Act will operate and offer clarity for aged care providers and workers.
A final draft of the Rules was published in July 2025 to give the sector early visibility of what to expect in the published Rules. Changes made since July have been minor and technical in nature.
The Rules were developed through a staged consultation process, including 7 releases between September 2024 and May 2025.
The Government has consulted with older people, their families and carers, providers, workers, peak bodies, union representatives, health professionals, academics and aged care advocates every step of the way on the aged care reforms, including the Rules.
The final Rules have now been signed and made by the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors and published on the Federal Register of Legislation. The registration of the Rules was dependent on Royal Assent of the amending legislation, which has now been received.
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website provides access to resources to prepare for the new Act, including training and guidance material.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, Sam Rae:
"I'm grateful to everyone who has engaged in this collaborative effort to deliver a set of Rules that will help the aged care sector deliver our once-in-a-generation reforms.
"We've worked hard to make sure the Rules will help improve the care our loved ones receive and facilitate the world-class care every older Australian deserves.
"With the final Rules now published, providers can move forward with certainty for the start of the new rights-based Aged Care Act from 1 November."
