Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Thursday 24 July 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The Minister for Aged Care and Seniors introduced the bill to facilitate the commencement of the Aged Care Act 2024, which is scheduled to begin on 1 November 2025. The legislation contains technical, transitional, and consequential amendments to support the new rights-based framework for aged care. Key provisions include adjustments to subsidy payments, the continuation of accommodation bond arrangements for pre-2008 entrants, and updates to the Star Ratings program. The Minister highlighted that the reforms were developed in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The debate was adjourned without further discussion from other members.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Sam Rae (Hawke) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Rae moved that the bill be read a second time, describing it as necessary to support the transition to the new Aged Care Act 2024. Rae argued that the legislation ensures subsidies are paid correctly to maintain a sustainable system while delivering increased care minutes, including those provided by registered nurses. The Minister stated that amendments allow for the continuation of accommodation bond arrangements for individuals who entered care before 2008 and introduce civil penalty provisions. Rae also noted that the bill updates automation processes for classification and means-testing to improve efficiency and transparency. Furthermore, the legislation includes changes to the Star Ratings program to better utilise compliance information and mandates a five-year review of aged-care quality standards.

Government response

Sam Rae (Minister for Aged Care and Seniors) ALP Hawke

Rae explained that the bill addresses technical and transitional matters required for the implementation of the Aged Care Act 2024. The Minister emphasised that the government deferred the start date to allow providers adequate time to prepare their systems and workforce. Rae outlined that the amendments ensure existing GST exemptions and income support payment treatments remain consistent with the new framework. The Minister also highlighted the importance of protecting personal information under the new act and ensuring clear transitions for authorisations. Rae commended the bipartisan support previously shown for the landmark reforms and thanked stakeholders for their contributions.