UnitingCare Australia welcomes the passage of the Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 through Parliament – a key step toward the successful commencement of the new Aged Care Act 2024 on 1 November 2025.

“This is a significant milestone for older Australians in the transformation of Australia’s aged care system,” said Claerwen Little, National Director of UnitingCare Australia. “The passing of this legislation ensures that we can move forward with delivering aged care under a rights-based framework.”

“The new Aged Care Act presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver more respectful, person-centred care for older Australians,” Ms Little said. “We are ready to do our part in realising this vision.”

UnitingCare Australia has been actively involved throughout this reform process, giving evidence at the first hearing of the Aged Care Royal Commission in 2018, and continues to advocate for a sustainable aged care system with a supported workforce, so that all older Australians receive the quality care they deserve, regardless of means or geography.

“Today’s announcement is a vital step in building a stronger, more enduring aged care system, one that is equitable, sustainable and anchored in human rights,” Ms Little added.

The UnitingCare Aged Care Network is actively preparing for the transition and will continue to prioritise the dignity, rights, and wellbeing of older Australians throughout the reform process.

We now look forward to the finalisation of the Aged Care Rules, and their release as soon as possible.

ENDS

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.

Media contact

Anne Aziz-Parker|0467 093 754|annea-p@nat.unitingcare.org.au