Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards and New Statement of Rights
Dear Residents and Representatives,
At Buckland we remain deeply committed to providing care that is safe, high-quality and centred around the individual needs and choices of each older person.
We would like to acknowledge the formal commencement, on the 1st of November 2025, of the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards and the new Statement of Rights, introduced under the Aged Care Act 2024.
These reforms strengthen Australia’s aged care system and reinforce a national commitment to delivering care that upholds dignity, respect, safety and choice for every older person.
The Statement of Rights, which replaces the former Charter of Aged Care Rights, sets out six fundamental rights for older persons receiving aged care services:
- Independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice
- Equitable access
- Quality and safe funded aged care services
- Respect for privacy and information
- Person-centred communication and the ability to raise issues without reprisal
- Advocates, significant persons and social connections
You can read more about the Statement of Rights on the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission website here:
https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-09/aged-care-act-2024-statement-of-rights-a4-explainer.pdf
We will have printed fact sheets available at reception that summarise the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards and the Statement of Rights. These are available for all residents, families and representatives to take home or review at their convenience.
Over the past year, we have been diligently preparing for this transition. Our leadership team and staff have worked together to:
- Review and update all policies, procedures and governance frameworks to align with the new Standards.
- Provide comprehensive education and training programs to ensure our workforce is informed, capable, and confident in meeting the strengthened expectations. These sessions have also extended to residents and representatives, giving everyone the opportunity to learn more about the upcoming changes, discuss what they mean in practice and ask questions in an open and supportive environment.
- Reinforce our culture of safety, transparency and continuous improvement, so that every older person in our care experiences genuine respect and quality in every interaction.
While these national reforms bring a renewed focus to quality and accountability, they also reflect what we have always valued — a caring, person-first approach where residents feel supported, heard and respected.
If you would like any assistance, clarification, or support in understanding these updates or how they may relate to your care, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.
Thank you for your ongoing trust and partnership as we continue to uphold the highest standards of care at Buckland.
Warm Regards
Johannes Brockahus
Chief Executive Officer