New Statement of Rights for aged care

The Aged Care Act 2024 introduces a Statement of Rights that applies to older people accessing aged care services funded by the Australian Government.

The Statement of Rights replaced the current Charter of Aged Care Rights on 1 November 2025, and it gives you the right to:

• Make your own decisions about your own life
• Have your decisions not just accepted, but respected
• Get information and support to help you make decisions
• Communicate your wishes, needs and preferences
• Feel safe and respected
• Have your culture and identity respected
• Stay connected with your community.

These rights are not just words on a page; they are fundamental to how all providers and staff should approach care and service delivery. Participants have the right to fair access to assessments and supports tailored to their individual needs, allowing them to exercise independence and control over their services and who provides them.

Older people deserve safe, quality care that respects their choices, including the ability to take risks in a supportive, safeguarded environment. They should be informed about their rights, including how to give feedback, raise issues and access advocacy, while being supported to maintain community connections, and providers must respect participants' privacy and communicate information clearly.

You can read the new Statement of Rights.