Opened the debate
McAllister argued that the bills were necessary to implement the Aged Care Act 2024, which establishes a rights-based framework centred on the dignity of older Australians. McAllister stated that the amendments ensure correct subsidy payments for the additional care minutes introduced in response to Royal Commission recommendations. McAllister explained that the legislation supports the transition of accommodation bond arrangements and updates automation provisions for means testing. McAllister also noted that the bills amend the Star Ratings program to better utilise compliance information and require a five-yearly review of quality standards. Furthermore, she highlighted that the second bill maintains the government guarantee scheme for accommodation payments to protect older Australians' funds.