UnitingCare Australia welcomes the commencement of a new Aged Care Act on 1 November 2025 — a key reform that places the rights of older Australians at the centre of our aged care system. 

“Today marks a turning point which will change the way aged care is delivered across Australia,” said Cathy Thomas, Interim CEO of UnitingCare Queensland and Board member for UnitingCare Australia. “The new Act is based on the principle that every older Australian deserves care grounded in dignity, respect and choice.” 

The rights-based legislation establishes a clearer framework for quality, accountability and transparency in aged care, reflecting recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. 

“These reforms encourage a stronger, more enduring aged care system,” Ms Thomas said. “UnitingCare Australia has worked closely with Government throughout the reform process and remains committed to ensuring the transition is successful and brings real change to older Australians receiving care.” 

Aged care providers in the UnitingCare network have been actively preparing for the implementation of the new Act, including the rollout of the Strengthened Quality Standards, digital systems transformation, and a new Support at Home program. 

“I’m deeply conscious of the extraordinary effort you and your teams continue to give, especially through this perfect storm of challenges,” said The Hon Sam Rae MP, Minister for Aged Care and Seniors to UnitingCare Australia’s network leaders at its CEO Advocacy Day at Parliament House on 29 October. “I believe we are well on the way to delivering a higher standard of care and building an ecosystem in which we can provide greater joy and a better quality of life for those we serve.”

As the new Act takes effect, Ms Thomas noted challenges remain, particularly around ensuring sustainability of the sector. 

“UnitingCare Australia’s providers will be working closely with older Australians and their families as they navigate the changes and will be closely monitoring the impact of the reforms”. 

While the new Act is a positive step forward, continued collaboration and investment are vital to ensure the system truly delivers on its promise of care, dignity and respect for every older Australian.  

About UnitingCare Australia

UnitingCare Australia is the national body for the Uniting Church’s community services network and an agency of the Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia.

Through advocacy and by strengthening service provision, UnitingCare Australia gives voice to the Uniting Church’s commitment to social justice.

The UnitingCare Network is the largest network of social service providers in Australia, delivering 5.8 million interactions annually across 1,600 service locations in urban, rural, and remote communities, with over 55,000 staff and 17,000 volunteers.