The Multi-Layered Governance Framework
Aged care in Australia is governed by a combination of government departments and independent agencies [1, 3, 4, 6, 7]. This structure provides oversight and protection for older Australians receiving care, influenced by recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety [1, 7].
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing: Policy and Funding
At the strategic level, the Australian Government’s Department of Health, Disability and Ageing is responsible for aged care policy, funding, and overall system operation [1, 3, 4, 6]. A System Governor position will oversee system integrity under the new Aged Care Act [4].
Key Functions of the Department
- Policy Development: Creating the policies and legislation for the aged care sector [1, 4, 6].
- Funding and Programs: Allocating funding for aged care programs [1, 4, 6].
- System Stewardship: Ensuring equitable access and system integrity [4].
- Worker Training: Encouraging training for aged care workers [4].
The National Regulator: Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC)
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission is the independent national regulator of government-funded aged care services [1, 3, 4, 6, 7]. It works to protect and enhance the safety and quality of life for older Australians receiving care [1, 4, 6]. The Commission operates independently of the government department [1, 4].
Core Roles of the ACQSC
- Approving Providers: Assessing organisations for delivering government-funded care [1, 4].
- Monitoring Compliance: Evaluating performance against Aged Care Quality Standards [1, 4, 6].
- Handling Complaints: Providing an independent complaints service [1, 4].
- Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS): Administering SIRS for reporting serious incidents [1, 4].
- Consumer Education: Informing consumers about their rights [1, 4].
- Regulatory Action: Taking action against providers who fail to meet obligations [1, 4].
The Independent Watchdog: Inspector-General of Aged Care
The Office of the Inspector-General of Aged Care is an independent statutory agency established in 2023 [1, 4]. This office provides external oversight and accountability in response to the Royal Commission [1, 4].
Responsibilities of the Inspector-General
- Overseeing Administration: Reviewing the administration, regulation, and funding of the aged care system [1, 4].
- Reporting: Publishing reports on system performance and making recommendations [1, 4].
- Ensuring Transparency: Holding the system accountable and ensuring transparency [1, 4].
The Gateway to Services: My Aged Care
My Aged Care is the central entry point for older people seeking government-funded aged care services [1, 4, 6]. It is a crucial part of the system's administration, managing access and information [1, 4, 6].
How My Aged Care Functions
- Information and Resources: Providing information on care types, costs, and providers [1, 4].
- Accessing Assessments: Managing applications for aged care assessments [1, 4].
- Provider Finder Tool: Offering a search for local aged care providers [1, 4].
How Different Bodies Govern Aged Care in Australia: A Comparison
| Governing Body | Primary Role | Key Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Health, Disability and Ageing | Policy, Funding & Systemic Oversight | Develops aged care policy, manages funding programs, provides strategic direction, and oversees the entire system's operations [1, 4, 6]. |
| Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) | Regulation & Quality Assurance | Independently regulates providers, monitors compliance with Quality Standards, handles complaints, and administers the Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) [1, 4, 6]. |
| Inspector-General of Aged Care | Independent Oversight & Scrutiny | Acts as a watchdog, overseeing and reviewing the administration, funding, and regulation performed by the government and other bodies [1, 4]. |
| My Aged Care | Consumer Access & Information | Serves as the primary entry point for consumers, providing information, managing assessments, and offering a provider search tool [1, 4, 6]. |
The Importance of the Aged Care Quality Standards
The Aged Care Quality Standards are central to the ACQSC's regulatory function [1, 6]. These eight standards set clear expectations for providers regarding the quality of care and services [1, 6]. The standards cover areas such as:
- Consumer dignity and choice [1, 6]
- Ongoing assessment and planning [1, 6]
- Personal and clinical care [1, 6]
- Service environment [1, 6]
- Feedback and complaints [1, 6]
- Workforce skills and qualifications [1, 6]
- Organisational governance [1, 6]
These standards provide a baseline of quality and can be used by consumers to evaluate providers [1, 6].
Conclusion: A System for Protection and Improvement
The governance of aged care in Australia is a multi-layered system designed for transparency and accountability [1, 4, 6]. The Department of Health sets policy, the ACQSC regulates quality and handles complaints, the Inspector-General provides independent scrutiny, and My Aged Care is the consumer entry point [1, 4, 6]. These bodies work together to focus on the safety and quality of life for older Australians [1, 4, 6]. For more details on aged care reforms, visit the official Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website.
