Australia announces aged care assessment review and payment reforms

The Australian Government has announced an independent review of aged care classification and prioritisation assessment mechanisms. This decision follows feedback regarding the Integrated Assessment Tool used under the Support at Home program. The review aims to ensure that care allocation accurately reflects the needs of older Australians while maintaining system sustainability. An expert advisory group specializing in gerontology will assist the process, with a full report expected to be tabled in parliament in the first half of 2027.

In a separate legislative development, the government has amended rules regarding accommodation payments for aged care residents. Previously, residents awaiting means assessments were restricted to daily payments. Under the new amendment, residents can choose to pay via a refundable accommodation deposit (RAD), a daily accommodation payment (DAP), or a combination of both while their assessment is finalized. Catholic Health Australia welcomed the change, noting it reduces complexity and financial pressure for families and providers. Consumer protections remain in place to ensure residents are not left out of pocket if a low-means assessment is later confirmed.