Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:C2024A00104:section:6
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:C2024A00104
Segment Type: section
Provision Reference: s 6
Character Range: 45364–47994

6  Simplified outline of this Act

      This Act provides for the delivery of funded aged care services to individuals under the Commonwealth aged care system. The services are included in the aged care service list and grouped into service types which are delivered through service groups.
      The objects of the Act, the Statement of Rights and the Statement of Principles underpin the system and are aimed at ensuring quality and safe care for individuals.
      Supporters may be registered to assist individuals with navigating the system and are required to act in accordance with principles that promote supported decision making.
      Eligible individuals undergo an aged care needs assessment which identifies which funded aged care services are needed. Services are delivered in an approved residential care home, or a home or community setting, and are delivered by entities known as registered providers. For certain service groups, there are mechanisms for prioritisation and allocation of limited places.
      The funding for services can be in the form of a subsidy or grant payable to the registered provider. The amount of funding available depends on various factors, including the classification type and classification level of individuals, the application of means testing and whether the service is being provided under a specialist aged care program, for example, for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander persons.
      The system is governed by the Secretary (known as the System Governor), the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner (the Commissioner), and the Complaints Commissioner.
      A set of key obligations apply to registered providers and apply even where registered providers subcontract the delivery of services to associated providers. Separate obligations apply to aged care workers and responsible persons of registered providers.
      Protections are provided for whistleblowers and statutory duties are imposed on registered providers, responsible persons and operators of aged care digital platforms that facilitate access to services. Criminal penalties and civil penalties apply for failures to meet requirements under this Act and compensation can be sought in cases of serious failures by registered providers.
      The Commissioner and the System Governor have access to a suite of regulatory mechanisms to assist in the performance of their respective functions.
      Arrangements for the protection of information and data obtained under this Act and the sharing of that information and data also apply.

Part 2—Definitions and key concepts

Division 1—Definitions