The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council (NATSIAACC) acknowledges the Australian Government’s decision to delay the commencement of the Aged Care Act 2024 to 1 November 2025.

The revised timeline will provide critical additional time for sector readiness, and the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices in the implementation process.

NATSIAACC’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Cassara Hardie, said, “We welcome this delay as an opportunity to ensure that the Aged Care Act reflects the unique needs, rights, and cultural values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and Older People, as well as their Communities. This is a chance to get it right.”

NATSIAACC has consistently advocated for meaningful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders in aged care reform, including co-design processes that uphold self-determination and cultural integrity.

The additional time must now be used to:
• Ensure culturally appropriate implementation strategies
• Finalise supports for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care Providers
• And strengthen the voice and leadership of Elders and Older People in shaping Aged Care Services.

NATSIAACC remains committed to working closely with the Government to ensure the Aged Care Act 2024 delivers equitable, culturally safe, and rights-based care for all older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“Our Elders and Older People deserve care that respects their dignity, culture, and deep contributions to Community and Country and/or Island Home. We will continue to push for reforms that uphold these principles.” Says Ms Hardie.

Media Enquiries:
For media enquiries, please contact info@natsiaacc.org.au.

 

About NATSIAACC:
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care Council (NATSIAACC) is the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ageing and Aged Care. NATSIAACC works to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and Older People can access support and care that is culturally safe, trauma-aware and healing informed, and recognises the importance of their personal connections to Community, Country and/or Island Home.