Aged Care Reforms Delayed: What It Means for South Burnett Seniors

Why the Delay?

The aged care sector, including providers in rural Queensland, warned that the original July 1 start date was “near impossible” to meet. Local facilities and home care services faced risks of system failures, unpaid bills, and confusion for clients due to incomplete information and unprepared systems. Tom Symondson, CEO of Ageing Australia, described these as “drop dead issues” that could have disrupted care delivery, particularly in regions like South Burnett where providers often operate with limited resources.

“We want to make sure all operational, digital, and legislative pieces are in place.”
— Health and Ageing Minister Mark Butler

Health and Ageing Minister Mark Butler and Aged Care Minister Sam Rae, who announced the delay on June 4, 2025, emphasized the need for a seamless rollout. The extra four months will allow providers to train staff, update IT systems, and ensure seniors and their families understand the new rules. For South Burnett’s aged care workers and facilities, this means more time to prepare without risking disruptions to the care our seniors depend on.

What Are the Reforms?

The reforms, shaped by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, aim to transform how aged care is delivered across Australia. For South Burnett residents, key changes include:

• Support at Home Program: This new initiative will replace existing schemes like the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home Care Packages, helping more seniors stay in their homes longer. In rural areas like Kingaroy, Wondai, and Nanango, where access to residential care can be limited, this program could make a big difference by providing tailored in-home support, from personal care to social activities.
• Increased Fees for New Entrants: Wealthier Australians entering aged care after November 1, 2025, will pay higher means-tested contributions for non-clinical services, like accommodation or meals. However, a “no worse off” principle ensures that current residents in facilities like Orana Lutheran Aged Care in Kingaroy won’t face fee increases.
• Rights-Based Framework: For the first time, the new Aged Care Act will include a Statement of Rights and Principles, ensuring providers prioritize seniors’ dignity and choice. This is especially important for South Burnett’s diverse communities, including Indigenous elders and those in remote areas.
• Stronger Regulations: The reforms build on existing changes, like 24/7 nursing in care homes and higher wages for aged care workers, to improve care quality and transparency.

These changes aim to create a system that puts South Burnett’s seniors at the heart of their care, whether they’re in a residential facility or receiving support at home.

How Does the Delay Affect South Burnett?

The delay is a relief for local providers, who were worried about rushing into reforms without clear guidance. Jason Kara, CEO of Catholic Health Australia, noted that incomplete details about fees and agreements could have led to legal and financial risks. In South Burnett, where aged care services are often stretched, avoiding these risks is critical to maintaining care for our seniors.

However, the delay comes at a cost. Treasurer Jim Chalmers estimated it will reduce federal revenue by $900 million to $1 billion over four years, as higher fees for wealthier residents are deferred. For South Burnett families, this means no immediate changes to care costs or services. Those already in aged care or home care programs will continue under current arrangements until November, giving them time to learn about the new system.

“Older people don’t have the necessary information to make informed choices, especially around the Support at Home program.”
— Craig Gear, CEO of Older Persons Advocacy Network

Craig Gear, CEO of the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN), reluctantly supported the delay, noting that seniors need more information, particularly in rural areas like ours where access to resources can be limited. This extra time is crucial for ensuring South Burnett’s seniors and their families understand their options.

Community and Industry Reactions

Local providers and advocacy groups have largely welcomed the delay. Simon Miller, CEO of Anglicare Sydney, said it would lead to “stronger outcomes for everyone.” In South Burnett, facilities like those run by Blue Care and smaller community providers share this view, as the extra time allows them to finalize agreements and train staff. However, challenges remain. OPAN and COTA Australia highlighted the 83,000-person national waitlist for home care, with many waiting up to 11 months. They’ve called for 20,000 additional home care packages, a need felt acutely in rural areas like ours where demand often outstrips supply.

The opposition, led by Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston, called the delay an “embarrassing backflip,” arguing the government ignored earlier warnings, causing stress for providers and families. While this criticism reflects political tensions, the consensus in South Burnett is that the delay prioritizes our seniors’ wellbeing.

What’s Next for South Burnett?

The government will use the next four months to refine digital systems, finalize fee structures, and provide training and guidance. For South Burnett residents, this means more opportunities to attend information sessions or consult with providers about the Support at Home program or new fee rules. Local organizations like the South Burnett Regional Council and advocacy groups may host community forums to keep seniors informed—watch for updates in this paper.

While the delay reduces immediate risks, some “teething issues” are expected when the reforms begin in November. Symondson cautioned that “not everything will be perfect,” but the focus is on resolving critical issues, like ensuring providers can deliver care without financial or system disruptions.

A Step Toward Better Care

For South Burnett’s seniors, their families, and care providers, the delay is a pragmatic step to ensure these ambitious reforms are rolled out effectively. As Minister Rae put it, “This is about ensuring the new Aged Care Act is ready for older Australians.” In our region, where community ties and quality care are paramount, getting these changes right is worth the wait. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach November 2025, and reach out to local aged care providers or OPAN for support in navigating this transition.

By Michael Vaughan, South Burnett Advocate