Older adults' rights

Two older women sit on a couch and look at paper documentation.

We all have the right to live safely and to be treated with dignity and respect. Find out more about your rights and how to get support.

A new rights-based Aged Care Act

The new Aged Care Act will put the rights of older people first. It includes a Statement of Rights for older people accessing aged care services.  

About the Statement of Rights

The Australian Government is changing Australia’s aged care laws. The Aged Care Act 2024 (the new Act) has a Statement of Rights. This explains what rights older people have when accessing aged care services funded by the Australian Government. The Statement of Rights will replace the current Charter of Aged Care Rights on 1 November 2025. The full Statement of Rights from the new Act is at the end of this fact sheet.

What the Statement of Rights means for you

The Statement of Rights will help make sure you are at the centre of your aged care. It gives you the right to:

• make your own decisions about your own life

• have your decisions not just accepted, but respected

• get information and support to help you make decisions

• communicate your wishes, needs and preferences

• feel safe and respected

• have your culture and identity respected

• stay connected with your community.

View the full summary of those rights in plain language

Watch this video that explains the aged care Statement of Rights to older people and their supporters

Having difficulty understanding the Statement of Rights?

If you would like to talk to someone about the Statement of Rights or need support in another language, please call us on 03 8470 8828.

Code of Conduct for Aged Care

The Code of Conduct for Aged Care describes how providers and the people providing your care must behave and treat you. 

View the quick guide for consumers

Seniors Rights Victoria

Elder abuse comes in many forms. It can be financial, emotional or psychological, physical, sexual, or neglect.

Seniors Rights Victoria provides information, support, advice, and education to help prevent elder abuse and safeguard the rights, dignity and independence of older people.

You can call the free, confidential helpline on 1300 368 821, Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm.

Visit the Seniors Rights website

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