Knowing your rights in aged care

If you or someone you care about is receiving aged care, it’s important to know your rights and to feel confident speaking up when something doesn’t feel right.

The Australian Government has introduced a new Statement of Rights to clearly set out what every older person should expect when getting support. It’s part of a broader shift toward aged care that puts people first. Along with the New Aged Care Act, this will officially be in place from November 1, 2025.

These rights apply no matter where you live, how your support is set up, or who provides it.

You can read the full Statement of Rights on the Department of Health and Aged Care website:

What is the Statement of Rights?

This new Statement of Rights replaces the old Charter of Aged Care Rights. Essentially, the statement of rights is there to protect you, empower you and put you at the centre. It helps make sure your voice is heard and that you’re treated with respect, every step of the way.

The biggest change is that these rights are legally enforceable. This gives you and your family stronger protections than ever before. The new Act is built around these rights, meaning providers have a legal duty to uphold them in everything they do.

What are your rights?

Here’s a summary of what the Statement of Rights says you are entitled to:

Independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice: You have the right to make decisions about your life. This includes your aged care services (and when they are delivered), your finances, your personal belongings, and your relationships. You can also receive support to help you make these decisions while maintaining control.
Equitable access: You have the right to a proper assessment or reassessment of your needs in a way that respects your culture, background, and abilities.
Quality and Safe funded Aged Care Services: You have the right to feel safe and to receive high-quality care from trained workers. The people caring for you must be properly trained, and you have the right to be free from all forms of violence, abuse, and neglect.
Respect for privacy and information: You have the right to keep your personal information private and to decide who can see your care records.
Person-centred communication and ability to raise issues without reprisal: You have the right to get information in a way that suits you, including in your preferred language or with extra support if needed. You also have the right to give feedback and make complaints without fear of it affecting your care.
Advocates, significant persons and social connections: You have the right to get help from advocates or other people you choose. Your important relationships with family, friends, and carers must be respected, and you have the right to stay connected to your community and even your pets.

These rights are not optional and must be embedded in the practices and operations of all aged care providers, as well as online platform providers, like Hireup, operating in the aged care space.

Why it matters

This is about making sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to what good support looks like. It sets a national standard that helps older people feel more confident, and helps providers stay accountable.

It’s also a reminder that aged care should be built on relationships, not just services. That people deserve to feel respected, informed and in control of their lives.

What this means at Hireup

At Hireup, these values are already part of how we work. We support older Australians to live independently at home, with choice and control over the support they receive.

If you're receiving support at home through Hireup, or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to help you understand your rights and make informed decisions about your support.