Aged care laws in Australia have now changed. The new Aged Care Act 2024 and Aged Care Rules 2025 now apply. While we complete updating of our website, including draft guidance and other materials, to align with the new laws, providers are advised to refer to the new Act and Rules for any required clarification of their obligations and legal responsibilities. Thank you for your patience.

Learn about Priority 1 and Priority 2 incidents and what needs to be reported to us.

This information is currently being updated to align with the changes in the Aged Care Act 2024. An updated version will be published as soon as possible. While these updates are being made, please refer to the ‘Reportable incidents and SIRS – A quick guide to changes from 1 November 2025’.

About reportable incidents

Find out about the 8 reportable incidents and key actions.

Psychological or emotional abuse

Read more about this reportable incident, including definitions and further actions.

Missing consumers

Read more about this reportable incident, including tips and examples.

Neglect

Read more about this reportable incident, including professional standards and warning signs.

Stealing or financial coercion by a staff member

Read more about this reportable incident, including how to respond and report.

Unexpected death

Read more about this reportable incident, including definitions and obligations.

Unexplained absence from care

Read more about this reportable incident, including work tools and responsibilities.

Unlawful sexual contact or inappropriate sexual conduct

Read more about this reportable incident, including warning signs and further information.

Unreasonable use of force

Read more about this reportable incident, including definitions and tips for responding.

Inappropriate use of restrictive practices

Read more about this reportable incident, including how to respond and report.

SIRS decision support tool

Our tool helps providers decide if an incident should be reported to us.
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Acknowledgement of Country

In the spirit of reconciliation, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, water and community. We pay our respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that content on this website may contain images of deceased persons.