The Code of Conduct in Aged Care is a national standard set to ensure that older Australians receive high-quality, respectful, and ethical care. This code outlines the responsibilities of aged care providers, workers, and governing bodies in maintaining a safe, supportive, and dignified environment for aged care recipients.
Aged care services play a vital role in supporting older Australians, and it is essential that these services uphold high standards of care, safety, and professionalism. The Aged Care Code of Conduct ensures that:
- Aged care recipients are treated with dignity and respect.
- Care services meet strict ethical and professional standards.
- Providers and workers are held accountable for their actions.
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) monitors and enforces compliance with the code. It conducts inspections, audits, and investigations and takes action against providers who fail to meet the required standards.
The code applies to:
- Aged care providers offering government-funded services.
- Aged care workers, including nurses, carers, and allied health professionals.
- Governing bodies responsible for managing aged care services.
By enforcing these standards, the Code of Conduct in Aged Care ensures that all older Australians receive safe, respectful, and person-centred care.
What Is the Purpose of the Aged Care Code of Conduct?
The Code of Conduct for Aged Care protects older Australians and ensures they receive safe, respectful, and high-quality care. It sets clear expectations for aged care providers, workers, and governing bodies and holds them accountable for delivering ethical and professional services.
Key Objectives of the Aged Care Code of Conduct
✔ Ensure high-quality care that meets safety and ethical standards – The code sets the minimum standards for aged care services, ensuring consistent, professional, and person-centred care.
✔ Protect older Australians receiving aged care services – It establishes safeguards to prevent mistreatment, neglect, and abuse, ensuring that aged care recipients are treated with dignity and respect.
✔ Hold aged care providers accountable for their actions – The code requires aged care providers and workers to maintain high standards, with penalties for non-compliance enforced by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC).
✔ Promote dignity, respect, and transparency in care services – Aged care recipients have the right to make informed decisions about their care, and providers must always act with honesty and integrity.
Who Must Follow the Aged Care Code of Conduct?
The Aged Care Code of Conduct applies to all government-funded aged care services, ensuring that everyone involved in providing care maintains high professional and ethical standards. It sets clear expectations for how providers, workers, and governing bodies should act when delivering aged care services.
Who Is Required to Follow the Code?
Approved aged care providers
Any organisation that delivers government-subsidised aged care, including residential aged care, home care, and respite care services.
Aged care workers
This includes nurses, personal care assistants, support workers, allied health professionals, and administrative staff who provide direct or indirect aged care services.
Governing bodies and executives
Management teams and executives responsible for overseeing aged care services must ensure that their staff comply with the code and uphold high standards of care.
The Aged Care Code of Conduct is legally required for all aged care services funded by the Australian Government, including:
- Residential aged care (aged care homes).
- Home Care Packages (HCPs).
- Respite care services.
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) monitors compliance and can take action against individuals or providers who fail to meet these standards.
The 8 Key Responsibilities in the Aged Care Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct for Aged Care outlines eight key responsibilities for all aged care providers and workers.
| Standard | Key Responsibility |
| 1. Act with respect for people’s rights | Recognise and uphold the rights of older Australians to dignity, choice, and independence. |
| 2. Deliver safe and competent care | Ensure that aged care workers are properly trained and skilled. |
| 3. Act with integrity and honesty | Maintain transparency in care decisions and ethical behaviour. |
| 4. Provide care that is free from abuse | Take reasonable steps to prevent and respond to neglect, abuse, or mistreatment. |
| 5. Actively listen and respond to concerns | Promptly raise and act on complaints that may impact care quality. |
| 6. Take accountability for quality and safety | Ensure that aged care services meet high standards and comply with regulations. |
| 7. Foster a culture of continuous improvement | Work towards improving aged care services through feedback and innovation. |
| 8. Promote a safe and inclusive environment | Create aged care settings that are free from discrimination and accessible to all. |
How Is the Aged Care Code of Conduct Enforced?
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) monitors, enforces, and ensures compliance with the Aged Care Code of Conduct. Its role is to protect aged care recipients by ensuring that all providers and workers meet the required standards of safety, professionalism, and care quality.
How the ACQSC Enforces the Code
✔ Investigating complaints related to code breaches – If concerns arise about an aged care provider, worker, or governing body, the ACQSC has the power to investigate misconduct allegations.
✔ Holding providers accountable through compliance checks – The ACQSC regularly audits aged care providers to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Providers that fail to comply may be required to make improvements or face penalties.
✔ Taking enforcement action for serious breaches – If a provider or worker fails to comply with the code, the ACQSC can take action, including:
- Issuing warnings or improvement notices.
- Fining providers for non-compliance.
- Revoking accreditation or approval for aged care funding.
- Banning individuals from working in aged care if they are found to have engaged in serious misconduct.
Reporting Concerns: If an aged care provider fails to meet the required standards, aged care recipients, families, or staff members can submit complaints through the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission via:
- Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission – Complaints
- Call +61 460 797979 for confidential reporting.
Difference Between the Aged Care Code of Conduct and Code of Practice
Many people confuse the Code of Conduct with a Code of Practice. Here’s how they differ:
| Aspect | Code of Conduct | Code of Practice |
| Definition | A legally required set of behavioural standards for aged care workers and providers. | A set of best practice guidelines that providers can choose to follow. |
| Purpose | To protect older Australians and ensure safe, ethical care. | To guide aged care providers in improving their services. |
| Enforcement | Legally binding and enforced by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. | Not legally required, but recommended for improving care standards. |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Aged Care Code of Conduct
What is the Code of Conduct for Aged Care?
The Aged Care Code of Conduct is a legally required set of standards that ensures aged care workers and providers deliver safe, respectful, and high-quality care. It outlines ethical and professional expectations to protect older Australians receiving aged care services.
Who enforces the Aged Care Code of Conduct?
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) monitors and enforces compliance with the code. It conducts audits and investigations and takes action against providers who fail to meet care standards.
How does the Code of Conduct protect aged care recipients?
The code requires aged care workers and providers to:
- Act with integrity and professionalism.
- Prevent abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.
- Deliver care that upholds dignity, independence, and respect.
By setting strict expectations, the code helps ensure safe and ethical aged care services.
What happens if an aged care provider breaches the code?
If an aged care provider or worker fails to meet the required standards, the ACQSC can take enforcement action, including:
- Issuing warnings or compliance orders.
- Fining providers for non-compliance.
- Revoking accreditation or government funding approval.
- Banning individuals from working in aged care for serious breaches.
Where Can I Get More Information?
Looking for aged care services that prioritise safety and respect? Contact Lucky Care to explore self-managed home care options that align with the highest standards of care.
