Friday saw our Warracknabeal and Hopetoun residents treated to a special pre-celebration of the introduction of the new Aged Care Act and Strengthened Standards.

Executive Manager Clinical Services Joseph Bermudo said: “November 1 marked a significant milestone for the aged care sector with the commencement of the new Aged Care Act and the Strengthened Aged Care Standards”.

In recognition of the changes, our Leisure and Lifestyle teams hosted a resident breakfast at Hopetoun, and an engaging and insightful session at Yarriambiack Lodge to celebrate and learn about what these changes mean for residents, families, and staff, starting with an open discussion about the 14 fundamental rights of people receiving aged care; how these rights came about, and how they form the foundation of the strengthened standards.

Each right was discussed thoughtfully, focusing on how they translate into everyday practice and person-centred care.

The 14 rights affirm that every person using aged care has the right to:

1. Safe and high-quality care and services.

2. Be treated with dignity and respect.

3. Have their identity, culture and diversity valued and supported.

4. Live free from abuse and neglect.

5. Be informed about their care and services in a way they understand.

6. Access all information about themselves, including their rights, care and services.

7. Have control over and make choices about their care and personal and social life, even where choices involve personal risk.

8. Have control over, and make decisions about, the personal aspects of their daily life, financial affairs and possessions.

9. Maintain their independence.

10. Be listened to and understood.

11. Have a person of their choice, including an aged care advocate, support or speak on their behalf.

12. Complain free from reprisal and have complaints dealt with fairly and promptly.

13. Personal privacy and protection of personal information.

14. Exercise their rights without it adversely affecting the way they are treated.

The session also highlighted the provider responsibilities under the new Act, ensuring that services not only comply with the updated standards but also uphold the spirit of dignity, choice, and empowerment for every resident.

“This session reflected the organisation’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, respect, and quality of life for all residents,” Joseph said.

“It was a wonderful reminder that while legislation and standards evolve, the heart of aged care remains the same — providing compassionate, person-centred care that celebrates the individuality and rights of every person we support”.