Colin Boyce (Flynn, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

The new Aged Care Act and Support at Home Program came into effect on 1 November 2025, touted as significant reform to how in-home aged care is delivered and funded. The government assured older Australians they would be no worse off. However, what I'm hearing from seniors support services and advocacy organisations is a very different lived experience. Many older Australians are confused by the new arrangements and finding their budgets no longer stretch as they once did. As a result, some have been forced to reduce or cancel essential services, including their food intakes, thereby directly impacting their health, wellbeing and independence. Others have accrued unexpected debt because they were unaware of the co-contribution payments or they have been unable to manage these amounts.

For older people determined to remain living independently, this uncertainty has real consequences. My office, along with advocacy services, has seen increased demand from older Australians seeking help to understand the changed system and resolve disputes with providers. That alone signals the need for clearer communication, better transitional support and a system that is simpler and more transparent and reassuring.

Aged-care reform is necessary, but so is trust. Our seniors deserve a sustainable aged-care system that supports people to stay in their own homes with dignity. Where the changes bring added cost, uncertainty and distress, it is right we listen and respond with clarity, compassion and practical solutions.

See this speech in context