Your Rights Under the Aged Care Act (Statement of Rights)
Your aged care rights under the new Aged Care Act, set out in the Statement of Rights: what the rights mean day to day and what to do if they are not met.
A rights-based Act
What the Statement of Rights covers
The right to take some risk
What the rights mean day to day
How providers must respond
If your rights are not being met
Using your rights well
Frequently asked questions
What is the aged care Statement of Rights?
It is a plain-language statement in the Aged Care Act 2024 setting out what older people are entitled to expect from government-funded aged care. It covers choice, equitable access, safe and quality care, dignity, privacy, being heard and staying connected, and applies across home, respite and…
What rights do I have in aged care?
You have the right to make your own decisions and take some personal risk, to fair and culturally safe access, to safe respectful care free from abuse, to privacy and dignity, to have your wishes heard, and to stay connected to your community. These are set out in the Statement of Rights.
What is dignity of risk in aged care?
It is your right to make your own choices even where there is some personal risk. A provider should support an informed decision to keep doing things your way rather than overruling you for safety alone. Your choices should be respected, not simply overridden.
What can I do if my aged care rights are not respected?
Raise it with your provider first, as many issues resolve once named. If not, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission handles complaints, and free independent aged care advocacy can help you understand your options and speak up on your behalf.