The treatment of older Australians is shaped by a complex system of government-funded services, community attitudes, and recent, extensive reforms. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which concluded in 2021, cast a critical light on the sector, revealing systemic failings including neglect and underfunding. In response, the Australian government has begun a significant reform agenda aimed at creating a rights-based, person-centred system.
The Australian Aged Care System: An Overview
The Australian aged care system provides a spectrum of services, ranging from entry-level support to full-time residential care. The primary gateway for government-subsidised care is the My Aged Care service.
Key Components of Aged Care
- Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP): Provides entry-level support to help older people remain independent at home. Services can include domestic assistance, personal care, and social support.
- Home Care Packages (HCP): A more comprehensive, co-ordinated package of care for people with more complex needs. Packages are consumer-directed, giving recipients choice over their provider and services. There are four levels of HCP, from basic to high-level care.
- Residential Aged Care: Provides accommodation and 24/7 care for those who can no longer live safely at home. It includes permanent and temporary (respite) options.
- Flexible Care: Short-term care options like Transition Care after a hospital stay or Short-Term Restorative Care to help regain independence.
Concerns and Challenges in Senior Treatment
Despite the framework for comprehensive care, systemic problems have been identified, most notably through the Royal Commission. These issues point to a significant gap between the intent of the system and its real-world delivery.
Elder Abuse and Neglect
The Australian Institute of Family Studies' National Elder Abuse Prevalence Study revealed concerning statistics regarding elder abuse in the community. As of 2020, approximately 1 in 6 older Australians had experienced some form of abuse in the preceding year, with psychological abuse being the most common. The study also found that perpetrators are most often family members, especially adult children,. In institutional settings, understaffing and neglect have been highlighted by the Royal Commission as major issues, including the improper use of restraints.
Ageism and Discrimination
Older Australians frequently face ageism in various aspects of life. The Australian Human Rights Commission reports that a significant number of older Australians experience discrimination in the workplace, with many feeling their contributions are not valued,. Surveys also indicate that age discrimination is considered common by most Australians. Media representation often perpetuates negative stereotypes of older people as frail, lonely, or a burden.
Reform and the Rights-Based Approach
In response to the Royal Commission, a new, rights-based Aged Care Act was recommended to replace the outdated system,. The new legislation, expected to take effect from late 2025, aims to place older people at the centre of the system, focusing on their rights, dignity, and personal choice.
The Charter of Aged Care Rights
The Charter of Aged Care Rights, which already applies to all people receiving government-subsidised aged care, codifies the standard of treatment individuals should expect. It covers rights to safe and high-quality care, respect for identity and culture, independence, and the right to complain without reprisal. The new Act is intended to strengthen and enforce these rights further.
Comparison of Residential vs. Home Care
| Feature | Residential Aged Care | Home Care Packages (HCP) |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | A residential facility with permanent accommodation. | In the older person's own home. |
| Level of Care | Higher level, 24/7 care, more suitable for complex needs like advanced dementia. | Coordinated care services that allow for independent living with support. |
| Consumer Choice | Limited by facility options and availability. | More choice and flexibility regarding providers and services received. |
| Social Connection | Risk of social isolation; residents are often lonely despite high visitation rates. | Supports continued connection to the wider community and existing social networks. |
| Decision Making | Some loss of control over daily life and routine, depending on the facility. | Empowers individuals to make decisions about their own personal life and care. |
Ongoing Issues and Future Outlook
Despite reforms, significant challenges remain. The Inspector-General of Aged Care has noted continued disappointment with the pace of reform, particularly regarding funding and access, which may lead to ongoing delays for those needing care. Workforce attraction and retention issues, highlighted by the Royal Commission, continue to impact the sector's ability to meet growing demand and provide high-quality, person-centred care.
However, the shift towards a rights-based framework and greater emphasis on home-based care reflects a growing alignment with what older Australians themselves want: to live independently with dignity for as long as possible. The journey towards a system that consistently delivers safe, quality, and respectful care is ongoing, but the foundation for significant improvement has been laid.
For more information on the aged care reforms and an overview of the system, visit the official government resource provided by the Department of Health and Aged Care.
What happens next for aged care?
The implementation of a new Aged Care Act from November 1, 2025, represents a significant step towards a rights-based system. It aims to clarify the rights of older people and increase provider accountability. The government is also addressing funding pressures, which are critical for attracting and retaining a skilled workforce capable of delivering high-quality, safe, and person-centred care,.
Conclusion
The question of how are the elderly treated in Australia reveals a complex and evolving landscape. While there are systemic issues, including abuse and inconsistent quality, Australia is undergoing a major reform process aimed at putting older people's rights and dignity first. The focus on empowering individuals through choice, bolstering a rights-based approach, and addressing systemic failures marks a crucial period of transition for the sector. Ultimately, the treatment of the elderly is moving towards a model that, while acknowledging the need for institutional care, prioritizes individual autonomy and supports older people to live well in their own homes for as long as possible.
