And what is the difference between the previous charter of aged care rights?
With the announcement of the new Aged Care Act taking effect on November 1, the Australian government has made new policy and legislation changes that providers and aged care users need to be aware of.
To see who is impacted by the new Act, read: The New Age Care Act: what that means for Aged Care providers?
Previously, when older Australians received aged care, they were provided with the Charter of Aged Care Rights. The Charter included 14 rights that were designed to protect people in aged care.
However, the Charter failed to prioritise older people’s preferences and goals.
The Statement of Rights
The Statement of Rights is a new piece of legislation that outlines six fundamental rights, grounded in two international human rights conventions.
It has been developed to ensure that people receiving aged care services are treated with dignity and fairness and have the right to make choices that support their independence.
Unlike the previous Charter, the Statement of Rights strengthens protections for older people and ensures all registered aged care providers are held responsible and accountable for the services they deliver.
The 6 rights include:
- Independence, autonomy and freedom of choice - This replaces the outdated attitude that providers “know what is best” and instead gives older people the right to choose for themselves.
- Equitable access - This means that all cultures, backgrounds and sexual orientations will be respected and receive tailored care.
- Quality and Safe Aged Care services – Older people MUST be treated with respect and not treated like children.
- Privacy and information protection – Providers must respect personal space and confidentiality.
- Person-centred communication and complaint protections – Stronger protections for people reporting issues and consistent staff are available.
- Readily available access to advocates and social connections – There will be no restrictions on access to an advocate or significant support individuals/organisations. The Statement of Rights is essential for people in aged care, as it provides greater choice, voice and flexibility in how they receive the care they want or need.
Read the Statement of Rights Bill here.
Resources:
- The New Statement of Rights Bill – it’s a big deal
- Statement of Rights Bill
- Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission – Statement of Rights
- Charter of Aged Care Rights
- The New Age Care Act: what that means for Aged Care providers?
