From 1 November 2025, the Aged Care Act 2024 will come into effect. This law includes a supported decision-making framework that gives you more control over your aged care by helping you make decisions, rather than having others make them for you.
What is supported decision-making?
Supported decision-making means that you remain in charge of your care. You have the right to make choices about the services you receive and how they are delivered. If you would like help understanding information or communicating your decisions, you can choose someone you trust to support you. This person is referred to as a supporter.
What is a registered supporter?
A registered supporter is someone you nominate to help you make or communicate decisions about your aged care. This could be a family member, friend, or carer that you have registered with My Aged Care. A registered supporter can attend meetings with you, help explain things and support you in discussing your needs. But they cannot make decisions for you – only you, or a legally appointed decision-maker (like a guardian or enduring power of attorney), can do that.
You don’t have to nominate a registered supporter, but if you want to, it’s easy to do through My Aged Care.
On 31 October 2025, if you already have someone listed as a representative in My Aged Care, they will automatically become your registered supporter on 1 November 2025, unless you notify My Aged Care that you would like to opt out.
Why would I nominate a registered supporter?
Having a registered supporter can:
- help you feel more confident when making decisions.
- make it easier to understand services, options, and rights.
- help ensure your voice is heard in care planning and conversations.
Registered supporters must always act in your best interests and respect your choices. The law includes strict rules and penalties if a registered supporter misuses their position.
How do I nominate a registered supporter?
To nominate a registered supporter, you must do this through My Aged Care. You can start the process by:
- calling My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.
- visiting myagedcare.gov.au and completing or downloading the form.
- via the My Aged Care online account.
- asking a staff member at Rural Northwest Health for help.
While the Act introduces formal registration of supporters, it is not mandatory for you to register a supporter.
Additionally, you can still ask us to involve a trusted third party, such as a family member, carer, or friend, even if that person is not registered. The process of providing consents for third parties already exists and will continue under the new Act.
Want to know more?
If you’d like to learn more or talk to someone about nominating a registered supporter, please speak with your Care Partner or visit:
We’re here to help you stay in control of your care and make informed decisions that are right for you.