current home care programs and will be introduced in stages. From 1 July 2025 the new program will replace the Home Care Package Program and the Short-term Restorative Care Program. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme will transition to the new program no earlier than 1 July 2027. The Royal Commission found that the previous aged care assessment process was confusing for older people and their families to navigate and that they had to tell their story several times. In January 2025 it is on track for ACAT, RAS and AN-ACC (residential care) to transition into the Single Assessment Workforce to deliver the Single Assessment System. The new Aged Care Act is set to commence on 1 July 2025, coinciding with the launch of the new Support at Home program. This phased approach aims to ensure a smooth transition to the enhanced aged care system envisioned by the Royal Commission. In 2021 The Royal Commission recommended an urgent review of the Aged Care Quality Standards. The Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards are expected to be introduced with the commencement of the new Aged Care Act. The Australian Government commissioned an independent review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in October 2022. This review aimed to put people with disabilities back at the centre of the NDIS and improve its design, operations and sustainability. The final report of the Independent Review of the NDIS ‘Working together to deliver the NDIS’ was delivered on 7 December 2023. In March 2024, the Australian Government introduced changes to the NDIS Act 2013 based on key recommendations of the NDIS Review. The new NDIS laws will come into effect on 3 October 2024. While some changes will take effect on day one, others will be introduced over time as they are designed and implemented. Jill Schultz Executive Manager Homecare Programs 15
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