Resources

The new rights-based Aged Care Act

The new Act started on 1 November 2025 and responds to issues facing older people, aged care providers, workers and the broader sector. It puts the rights of older people at the centre of the aged care system. For more information: About the new rights-based Aged Care Act | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

Support at Home program

The new Support at Home program replaced the Home Care Packages Program and Short-Term Restorative Care Programme on 1 November 2025. The Commonwealth Home Support Program will transition to the new program no earlier than 1 July 2027. For more information: Support at Home program | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

© Commonwealth of Australia

For more information please contact:

• The Department of Communities and Justice on Phone: 9377 6000 or go to dcj.nsw.gov.au
• OPAN: Aged Care Advocacy Line 1800 700 600 – Advocacy for older people We provide free, independent and confidential support to older people seeking or receiving government funded aged care services.
• COTA Australia: 1300 COTA AU (1300 2682 28) COTA (Council on the Ageing) Australia advocates for the rights, interests and good futures of Australians as we age. Our broad agenda is focused on tackling ageism, respecting diversity, and empowering older people to live their best life
• Department of Health, Disability & Ageing: 1800 020 103 – We’re working on a range of policy initiatives, programs and campaigns to help improve your health and the health of all Australians.
• Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission: 1800 951 822 – We protect and improve the safety, health, wellbeing and quality of life for people receiving aged care services.
• My Aged Care: 1800 200 422 – If you need some help around the house or think it’s time to look into aged care homes, My Aged Care is here to help. To get started, pick a card below to tell us who you are. We’ll ask a few simple questions to guide you to the right place.
• Services Australia: 132 300 – Payments and services for people retiring or accessing aged care. Help for people who care for older Australians.
• 1800ELDERHelp: 1800 353 37- a free, confidential Australian national phone line providing information, support, and referrals for anyone experiencing, witnessing, or suspecting elder abuse

Legal Issues

Legal Aid

Phone: 1300 888 529
Email:www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au

Seniors Rights Service:

Phone:1800 424 079
Email: seniorsrightsservice.org.au