New Aged Care Act

Understanding the Aged Care Act

Previous aged care legislation focused largely on providers and funding structures. The Aged Care Act is rights-based, placing older people and their choices front and centre.

Under the Act, everyone receiving funded aged care has a Statement of Rights, outlining their legal entitlements. This ensures people remain at the heart of their own care decisions, with the ability to express their wishes, make choices and access the support they need.

Older people can also nominate a registered supporter to help them understand information or communicate their decisions.

The Aged Care Quality Standards and Code of Conduct have also been strengthened, reinforcing accountability for providers and expectations for delivering high-quality, transparent and respectful care.

At Mayflower, we support these requirements through ongoing staff training and care management systems that help ensure care is consistent, responsive and connected.

These reforms reinforce the importance of listening to, empowering and supporting older Australians.

Putting the Aged Care Act into Practice At Mayflower

At Mayflower, person-centred care has always been our core. The Aged Care Act reinforces our commitment to:
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1. Truly listening

We take the time to understand your preferences, life story, and what truly matters to you. Care isn’t a checklist - it’s about creating a life that feels familiar, meaningful, and your own.

2. Co-designing your support

You have a greater say in how your care is planned and delivered. Together, we tailor your services to suit your lifestyle, values, needs and preferences.

3. Transparent choices

You have access to clear information about their care, services and fees, empowering you to make confident, informed decisions about your care.

4. Safety, dignity, and quality

Stronger quality systems, accountability, and continuous improvement have been implemented to help ensure your safety, dignity, and peace of mind.

5. Supporting people to speak up

We welcome your feedback and will always listen. The Act reinforces safe, accessible pathways to raise concerns or make changes - and we’re here to respond and act. Visit our feedback page to view our feedback and complaints policy.

Home Care worker pouring tea for a client.

Continuing Our Commitment

At Mayflower we remain committed to providing care grounded in compassion, responsiveness, and integrity.

The Aged Care Act reinforces the importance of respecting every persons individuality, upholding their rights and ensuring their choices remain at the centre of their care.

Because aged care is not just about compliance - it’s about relationships, trust, and belonging.

At Mayflower, we’ll continue to be guided by your stories, your choices, and your dignity.

FAQ: Understanding the Aged Care Act

1. What is the Aged Care Act?

The Aged Care Act 2024 is Australia’s aged care law, which came into effect on 1 November 2025. It replaced the previous legislation from 1997 and created a simpler, fairer system that focuses on people - not processes or funding.

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2. What are tge key changes under the Act?

The Act is rights-based, which means older people are at the centre of every decision about their care.

It strengthens your rights to:

Make your own choices about care and lifestyle.

Be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Receive clear information about your care and costs, so you can stay in control of your choices.

Give feedback or make a complaint safely and easily.

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3. What is the Statement of Rights?

People receiving funded aged care have rights outlined in the Statement of Rights.

This document outlines your legal rights under the Act - such as your right to privacy, independence, cultural identity, and choice in how care is provided. It’s designed to help you understand what you can expect and what you’re entitled to.

Mayflower has shared the Statement of Rights with residents, families, and staff. You can read it by selecting one of the buttons below. To view it in another language visit www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/a-new-aged-care-act-for-the-rights-of-older-people?language=en.

Statement of Rights Dichiarazione sui diritti (Italian)Δήλωση Δικαιωμάτων (Greek)

4. What are the Strengthened Quality Standards?

The Strengthened Quality Standards set the benchmark for safe, high-quality care.
They have been strengthened to make sure:

Care is person-centred and responsive.

Services are well managed, accountable, and continuously improving.

Staff are trained, supported, and guided by clear expectations.

At Mayflower, these standards are already embedded in how we work - we call it Care without Compromise.

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5. What does the Act mean for residents and families?

The Act reinforces the importance of your voice in decisions about your care. Your preferences, goals and individual needs should guide the care and support you receive.

Families continue to be involved and informed, with transparency and partnership in care planning.

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6. How does Mayflower uphold the Aged Care Act?

At Mayflower, person-centred care has always been at our core. We are committed to respecting residents’ rights, dignity and individual preferences through the care and support we provide.

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7. Where can I found out more about the Aged Care Act?

If you’d like to learn more, speak to your Care Manager, General Manager, or visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

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8. How can I give feedback or share my thoughts?

We welcome feedback at any time.
You can:

Speak to a staff member or manager directly.

Use our feedback forms available on-site.

Complete the feedback form on the website.

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Every comment helps us improve and continue delivering care that truly reflects your needs.

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At Mayflower, we remain committed to upholding your rights, respecting your choices and ensuring your voice is heard.

The Aged Care Act: Putting You at the Centre