The new Aged Care Act is based on a risk-based Regulatory Model. The strengthened regulatory model sets out how the aged care sector will operate when the new Act starts.
As the Commission already operates as a risk-based regulator, the strengthened regulatory model will support the Commission to continue to direct resources to the areas of highest risk and ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality aged care services.
To learn more about the strengthened regulatory model including:
- how the new model will work
- new programs to be regulated
- provider obligations and support.
Visit:
- The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – Aged care regulation and oversight under the new Aged Care Act
- The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – Provider obligations and support
To learn more about the Commission’s Regulatory Strategy 2024-25 which outlines our current risk-based model visit Regulatory Strategy 2024-25.
Our Regulatory Strategy is informed by:
- evidence-based practice and the Commission’s recent Independent Capability Review.
- changes signalled by the new Aged Care Act
- conversations we are having every day with older people, providers and workers.
To ensure a clear understanding of our expectations for providers and aged care workers, we’re revising our Regulatory Strategy for 2025-26.
Consultation on the draft Regulatory Strategy 2025-26 has now closed. We’re currently reviewing all feedback and will release a final version of the Strategy soon.
New Compliance and Enforcement Policy
Our new Compliance and Enforcement Policy applies from 1 November 2025. It explains the compliance and enforcement actions we can take to:
- make sure providers and workers understand and comply with their obligations under the new Aged Care Act and the Aged Care Rules 2025
- uphold the rights of older people under the Statement of Rights
- remedy and prevent non-compliance and promote conduct that protects the safety, health and wellbeing of older people.
Our response to non-compliance will depend on the risk it presents to older people, and how willing the provider or worker is to work with us to manage the risk.
