The new Aged Care Act 2024 introduces important changes designed to strengthen transparency and accountability across the aged care sector. One of the key updates is the introduction of the term ‘associated providers’, referring to organisations that deliver funded aged care services on behalf of a registered provider.
What This Means for Providers
From 1 November 2025, registered aged care providers are required to notify the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission about their associated providers; both at the time of registration and renewal, and whenever there are changes to associated provider arrangements.
This new measure ensures that the Commission has a clear understanding of all organisations contributing to the delivery of aged care services, helping to maintain high standards of safety, quality, and continuity of care.
Responsibilities of Providers
Under the new Act, providers must have robust systems and processes in place to ensure their associated providers:
- Deliver services that are safe, high-quality, and compliant with all legislative and regulatory requirements.
- Meet the same care and governance standards expected of registered providers.
These requirements give the Commission greater visibility into third-party relationships that can influence the quality of care and support ageing individuals receive.
Regulatory Guidance Now Available
To help providers understand their obligations, the Commission has released a Regulatory Bulletin outlining:
- Who qualifies as an associated provider
- Who does not fall under this category
- Reporting and compliance requirements for providers using associated providers, and
- Expectations and obligations placed on associated providers themselves.
The bulletin provides practical guidance to ensure providers, and their partners, are prepared to meet the new requirements under the Aged Care Act 2024.
Find Out More
For more details, visit the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission website and review the latest Regulatory Bulletin on associated providers.
If you have questions or need further information, contact the Commission at:
📧 [email protected]
📞 1800 951 822 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm)
The NGO Training Centre is committed to supporting aged care providers with up-to-date industry insights and education programs that strengthen workforce capability and service quality.
We have individual Aged Care courses, plus Business Training Packages, developed by sector experts to meet all new Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards and ensure you and your workforce are empowered to deliver the best quality care.
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Author: Amanda Robinson BA, MMHealthPrac,
As Head of Learning and Development and a seasoned NDIS expert, Amanda drives capability and sustainability in the disability and health sectors. With over 15 years of experience, post-graduate qualifications in Mental Health Leadership and Management, and currently pursuing an MBA, she brings deep expertise and personal insight as someone with lived experience of disability. A devoted carer, Amanda champions Human Rights, working to dismantle stigma and barriers for individuals with disability and mental health challenges. She is passionate about building robust stakeholder relationships, leveraging her advocacy, communication, strategic thinking, and analysis skills.
