The government’s Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment (Royal Commission Response) Act 2022 passed on 2 August 2022. This legislation implements 9 measures to improve accountability and transparency, and responds to 17 recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
As a result of this amendment there will be new governance responsibilities for approved providers. These include requirements regarding:
- membership of governing bodies
- the establishment of new consumer and clinical advisory bodies
- measures to improve leadership and culture.
There will also be new responsibilities related to notifications of material changes that affect suitability, including changes to key personnel.
The measures have a staggered implementation, with the first requirements commencing on 1 December 2022.
Detailed guidance documents will be available to assist providers to implement the requirements.
Further information relating to guidance documents and other supports will be provided shortly.
For further information relating to exposure draft of the legislation, refer to the Department of Health and Aged Care website.
Governing for Reform in Aged Care Program
In response to the Royal Commission’s final report Care, Dignity and Respect, an innovative and highly tailored learning program for aged care leaders has been developed – the Governing for Reform in Aged Care Program (the Program).
The Program provides an opportunity for aged care leaders to be ahead of the aged care reforms and implement best practice in aged care organisational and clinical governance, and ensure the provision of safe and high-quality care to consumers.
The Program provides participants with access to highly specialised learning materials and supports, including workshops, online learning modules and resources, podcasts, networking opportunities, coaching and webinars.
We encourage all governing body members and aged care executive leaders to participate in the Program, to be part of a collective drive to transform the aged care sector.
Enrolment in the Program is free for all governing body members and aged care executive leaders of approved providers of residential and home care services.
Learn more about the Program and enrol now.
Letter from the Commissioner to approved providers
On 20 December 2021, the Commissioner wrote to Board Chairs and CEOs of approved aged care providers, encouraging participation in the Governing for Reform Program in Aged Care Program.