In August, the Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner and her office moved from early meetings to practical work. This includes progressing the systems, rules and work plan needed to support the move to a permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner.
The updated 2026-27 work plan, business plan and risk plan set out the office's focus for this year. They cover setting up the permanent Commissioner, keeping strong links with community and the aged care sector, and using evidence to improve aged care access and outcomes.
Legislation progress
In August, the office helped progress the law needed to create a permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner. A Senate committee reviewed the Bill and recommended that Parliament pass it. This is an important step toward the permanent Commissioner role starting on 1 July 2027. The Bill is still before the House of Representatives.
You can read the draft legislation and follow its progress here: Aged Care Legislation Amendment (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner and Other Measures) Bill 2026 - Parliament of Australia.
The team also worked on the rules, staffing, appointment process and office setup needed for the permanent Commissioner. The permanent Commissioner will give independent advice and speak up about aged care matters that affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and older people. The role will also help make aged care more culturally safe, trauma-aware and healing-informed.
Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Advisory Working Group
In August, the Interim Commissioner began setting up the Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Advisory Working Group. This group will give advice, cultural guidance and community views. It will help shape the permanent Commissioner's appointment, resources, office model and early priorities.
The group will meet for the first time in September 2026. It will help shape how the permanent Commissioner is appointed, how the role works, how decisions are made and what the Commissioner should focus on first.
Engagements and speaking events
During August, the Interim Commissioner met with people from government, community, the aged care sector and research organisations. These discussions helped build relationships and guide the office's work. Topics included First Nations data, aged care workers, Indigenous health and aged care, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, and future engagement across states and territories.
Planning also continued for meetings and events from September to December. These include the first working group meeting, aged care conferences, visits with providers and communities, and roundtables with key sector partners. This work will help keep the Interim Commissioner's priorities connected to community needs and lived experience.
Message from the Interim Commissioner
"In August, we moved from early ideas to practical action. My office started building the foundations for the permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Commissioner. We also kept working to make sure community continues to guide this work.
"We focused on the practical steps that will help the permanent Commissioner start well. These include clear priorities, trusted relationships and strong ways of working. I also met with people across government, community and the aged care sector. These conversations are helping shape what we do next.
"There is still important work ahead. I look forward to listening, learning and working with Elders, older people, families, communities, providers and partners. Together, we can help build a stronger and more culturally safe aged care system for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
