by: Kate Fisher
The Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, coming into effect on 1 July 2025, mark a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for aged care providers. These new standards, developed in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, are more detailed, measurable, and person-centred than ever before (Department of Health and Aged Care [DoHaAC], 2023).
At DVE Business Solutions, we understand that for providers, meeting these expectations isn’t just about compliance, it’s about cultural change, workforce capability, and consistent, quality care delivery.
Providers must now show a deeper alignment between care practices and the lived experiences of older people. The seven strengthened Standards cover essential areas including governance and leadership, care and clinical services, environment, food and nutrition, residential community life, and individual rights (Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission [ACQSC], 2024a).
Particular focus has been placed on governance (Standard 2), clinical care (Standard 5), and person-centred approaches (Standard 1), with heightened expectations around dignity, independence, safety, and cultural responsiveness.
To comply, providers will need to review and strengthen key systems including risk management, incident response, workforce planning, and consumer engagement (DoHaAC, 2023).
You can view a summary of the strengthened Standards here.
(Image source: https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/strengthened-aged-care-quality-standards-poster.pdf)
How DVE Business Solutions Can Support You
This is where DVE can help. We work closely with providers to ensure a smooth transition to the strengthened Standards through tailored support services including mock audits, policy and procedure reviews, and mentoring for staff and leadership teams.
- Mock audits simulate real Commission assessments using the ACQSC Self-assessment tool, helping you identify and address compliance gaps in a low-risk environment.
- Policy and procedure reviews ensure your documentation is aligned with the outcomes and expectations of each Standard – making them not just compliant, but actionable.
- Workforce mentoring supports frontline staff, managers, and executives in understanding their roles in upholding the Standards and creating a sustainable, quality-focused culture.
With the Commission making it clear that aged care services must move beyond box-ticking, it’s more important than ever to demonstrate continuous improvement supported by strong systems of feedback, governance, and workforce capability (ACQSC, 2024b).
At DVE, we make this achievable. We guide you in embedding compliance into daily practice- turning Standards into habits and obligations into confidence. With our proven experience, practical tools, and supportive approach, we’re here to help you meet the July 2025 deadline and thrive under the new framework.
References
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. (2024a). Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/providers/strengthened-aged-care-quality-standards
Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. (2024b). Stronger Standards, Better Aged Care Program: Vision Statement. https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/stronger_standards_better_aged_care_program_vision_0.pdf
Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). A new Aged Care Act for the rights of older people: Full rights-based framework. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act/rights
