One of the most closely watched developments in aged care reform is the introduction of the new Aged Care Act, originally scheduled to commence on 1 July 2025. This major legislative overhaul includes the launch of the Support at Home program and the End-of-Life Care Pathway.
The Australian Government recently announced a delay in the implementation date, with the new Act and related programs now set to begin on 1 November 2025.
You can read the full media release here.
This delay follows sustained advocacy from peak bodies, service providers, and consumer groups, who have highlighted the importance of ensuring systems readiness, workforce preparedness, and a seamless transition that protects continuity of care for older people. While this extension offers some much-needed time to address unresolved questions, it will be critical that the timeline is now met — without further postponement.
The latest updates and available resources, including new training modules can be found on the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website: Support at Home program | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
Palliative Care NSW will continue to monitor developments and share relevant updates as they emerge. In the meantime, we strongly recommend those working in palliative and aged care to subscribe to the Department’s Aged Care newsletters and mailing lists to stay up to date with implementation plans, resources, and further training opportunities.
With this additional lead time, there is a renewed opportunity to engage, prepare and advocate for an aged care system that better supports older people, their families, and the staff providing palliative and end of life care across aged care settings.